A week of dangerous heat across Middle Tennessee is putting renewed attention on the health risks of extreme temperatures, particularly for older adults, children, outdoor workers and people without reliable access to air conditioning.

Heat index values reached dangerous levels across the region this week, with the National Weather Service forecasting readings between 100 and 110 degrees or higher in areas west of the Cumberland Plateau.

The Nashville Office of Emergency Management conducted heat patrols Tuesday through Friday in response to the conditions, with personnel checking on vulnerable residents, including people experiencing homelessness.

But even as the workweek ends, officials are urging residents not to become complacent when temperatures remain high.

Extreme heat can quickly overwhelm the body’s ability to cool itself, making it important to recognize the early signs of heat-related illness.

Know the warning signs

Heat exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea and headaches. Someone experiencing those symptoms should move to a cooler location, rest and drink water.

More severe symptoms can signal heat stroke, a potentially life-threatening medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

One of the simplest protections is also among the most important: drink water regularly rather than waiting until you feel thirsty.

OEM recommends avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest portion of the day, generally between 10 am and 4 pm. When outdoor activity cannot be avoided, residents should wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

Officials are also asking residents to check on relatives, friends and neighbors who may be particularly vulnerable.

Older adults, people with chronic illnesses and those without access to air conditioning face increased risks during prolonged periods of high temperatures. A phone call or visit can help determine whether someone needs assistance getting to a cooler environment.

Outdoor workers face greater risk

For thousands of people, staying indoors during extreme heat isn’t an option.

Construction workers, landscapers, road crews and others who spend hours working outside can face prolonged exposure to high temperatures, direct sunlight and humidity while performing strenuous physical labor.

Employers are being urged to provide frequent rest periods in shaded or air-conditioned areas and ensure workers have easy access to drinking water.

Workers should drink approximately one cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes while working in the heat, according to safety guidance provided by OEM.

When possible, employers should schedule the most physically demanding work for cooler portions of the day and rotate employees through strenuous assignments.

Workers and supervisors should also be trained to recognize heat illness in themselves and others. A buddy system can help identify symptoms before they become a medical emergency.

Never leave a child or pet in a vehicle

Officials are emphasizing one warning that applies regardless of how briefly someone expects to be away from a vehicle: Never leave a child or pet inside a parked car.

Vehicle interiors can heat rapidly to dangerous levels, creating potentially fatal conditions even when someone intends to be gone only a short time.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to make a habit of checking the back seat every time they leave a vehicle.

Children should also drink water regularly, wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and have outdoor activities limited during peak heat.

Pets need similar precautions. Walks should be scheduled during cooler morning or evening hours when possible, and animals should always have access to fresh water and shade.

Pet owners should also be mindful of pavement temperatures. Asphalt and other surfaces exposed to direct sunlight can become hot enough to injure an animal’s paws. Owners can place a hand on the pavement before a walk to determine whether the surface is too hot.

Excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting or an unsteady gait can indicate heat illness in pets and warrant immediate attention.

The week’s weather has also brought chances for afternoon and evening thunderstorms, some capable of producing gusty winds and localized flash flooding, adding another potential hazard.

For residents, the message from emergency officials is straightforward: take extreme heat seriously, stay hydrated, limit exposure during the hottest hours and pay particular attention to people who may need help.

With Middle Tennessee still in the heart of summer, dangerous heat can return quickly—making those precautions important well beyond this week’s heat wave.