Extreme Heat
Heat related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this, hundreds of people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year. Below, you will find helpful tips, information, and resources to help you stay safe in the extreme heat this summer.
For open cooling centers click HERE or call 2-1-1 and speak with a Community Resource Specialist!
What is Extreme Heat?
Extreme heat is defined as summertime temperatures that are much hotter and/or humid than average. Because some places are hotter than others, this depends on what's considered average for a particular location at that time of year. Humid and muggy conditions can make it seem hotter than it really is.
What Causes Heat-Related Illness?
CDC Information on Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion or heat stroke, happen when the body is not able to properly cool itself. While the body normally cools itself by sweating, during extreme heat, this might not be enough. In these cases, a person's body temperature rises faster than it can cool itself down. This can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs.
Some factors that might increas your risk of developing a heat-related illness include:
- High levels of humidity
- Obesity
- Fever
- Dehydration
- Prescription drug use
- Heart disease
- Mental illness
- Poor circulation
- Sunburn
- Alcohol use
Who is Most at Risk?
CDC Information on People at Increased Risk for Heat-Related Illness
Older adults, the very young, and people with mental illness and chronic diseases are at highest risk. However, even young and healthy people can be affected if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather.
Pets
The high activity levels of dogs, in particular, make them incredibly vulnerable to the heat.
DON'T EVER leave your pet alone win a car, even if the windows are cracked open. If you see a pet in a hot car, call 911immediately.
Tips for keeping your dog safe in the sun:
Contact your veterinarian for any question syou have regarding your pets.
- Learn the signs of heat exhaustion. Excessive panting, a dark purple-red tongue, and redness around the eyes are all signs that a dog may need a serious cool-down. Short-nosed dogs like boxers, bulldogs, and French bulldogs are most vulnerable.
- Walk earlier and shorter. Go out before and after the peak heat of the day, and avoid too-hot pavement. Stylish booties to protect paws are a great option.
- Be generous with water. A pet's drinking water should be supplied in plastic bowls that don't trap the heat and that are constantly available during outside exercise or play. Consider setting up kiddie pools or sprinklers for dogs to run around in. The easier it is for them to access a way to cool down without your help, the better.
Seniors
CDC Information on Heat and Older Adults (Aged 65+)
Infants and Children
CDC Information on Heat and Infants and Children
Outdoor Workers
CDC Information on Heat and Outdoor Workers
Additional Resources
Centers of Disease Control and Prevention: Extreme Heat
CDC Heat Risk (search by zip code)
National Weather Service Heat Index
