Stay Safe When It's Hot Outside

The National Weather Service (NWS) is predicting a heat wave for our region, with major heat risk beginning Wednesday, July 1 and continuing through the weekend. Stay up-to-date with the latest forecasts by checking the NWS Heat Risk map online.

Heat Safety Tips

Here are some tips from the Virginia Department of Health to stay safe and prevent heat-related illness:

• Drink water. When the temperature rises, it is important to drink plenty of water. Drinks that contain caffeine, large amounts of sugar or alcohol should be avoided because they can cause you to become dehydrated.
• Keep cool indoors. On hot days, prevent illness by keeping cool indoors. If your home is not air conditioned, try to spend the hottest hours of the day in a cool public place such as a library, movie theater, or store.  Check out VDH’s Cooling Center Map to find a cooling center near you.
• Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun’s energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella. Always apply sunscreen to exposed skin.
• Limit physical activity. Avoid excessive physical exertion in hot temperatures, especially in the middle of the day. If you must work outdoors, stay hydrated by drinking 2-4 glasses of water each hour and take frequent breaks in a cool place. Even a few hours in an air-conditioned environment reduces the danger of heat-related illness.
• Do not keep children or pets in cars. Temperatures inside a car with windows up can reach over 150 degrees quickly, resulting in heat stroke and death.
• Check on your neighbors. Although anyone can suffer heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. People aged 65 or older are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses and complications that can result during periods of high temperatures and humidity.

For More Information

• NWS Heat Safety Tips and Resources
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Heat Health