There is currently the potential for increasing Heat Risk this weekend, with Major Heat Risk forecast for tomorrow, June 22, 2024. Please see the following tips from the Maryland Department of Health and the CDC, or visit https://ephtracking.cdc.gov/Applications/HeatRisk/ for more information and additional forecasting.
Tips for Heat Safety (Maryland Department of Health):
(https://health.maryland.gov/preparedness/Pages/resources_hot.aspx)
How can I prevent heat-related illnesses?
- When the heat index is high, stay indoors as much as possible.
- Move to the lower floors of your building.
- Schedule outdoor activities for cooler times of the day, before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
- Wear light-weight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
- Drink plenty of water before starting any outdoor activity.
- During outdoor activities, take frequent breaks and drink water or other fluids every 15 to 20 minutes, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- NEVER leave infants, pets, children, or the elderly inside a parked car.
- Dress infants and children in cool, loose-fitting clothing and shade their face with a hat or umbrella.
- Fans will not prevent a heat-related illness. Take a cool shower or bath or move to a room with air conditioning.
- Check on adults you know that are at-risk for heat-related illness at least twice a day.
- Constantly monitor children for signs of heat-related illnesses.
Hot weather tips
- Apply sunscreen of SPF15 or higher at least 30 minutes prior to heading out. Continue to apply as the package directs. The most effective products are those that say “Broad Spectrum” or “UVA/UVB Protection” on their labels.
- Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your eyes and face in the sun.
- Avoid drinking certain types of beverages:
- Reduce caffeine intake from beverages including coffee, tea, cola, and other heavily caffeinated beverages.
- Alcoholic beverages and drinks that are high in sugar.
- Very cold drinks, as they can cause stomach cramps.
- Avoid eating hot foods or heavy meals as they add heat to your body.
Actions you can take to protect your health (CDC):
Even a few hours in a cool location can lower your risk for health problems from heat. Stay hydrated, stay cool.
If you are outside, especially for a long time, you can:
- Stay in the shade as much as possible.
- Take breaks when you can.
- Do outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day or evening, if possible.
When you are indoors, you can:
- Use air conditioning or find a location that has one.
- Use a fan to cool your body off, only when indoor temperatures are less than 90°F.
Check on your family, friends, and neighbors, especially if they have chronic medical problems or live alone. Check on pets.
Work with your doctor to see if you need to take additional health actions.
Check the air quality in your area before heading out.
Contact: [email protected]
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