Safety Tips to Prepare For Heat

Published:

The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) would like you to follow a few important steps to keep yourself, your loved ones, neighbors and pets safe during high heat.

DURING HIGH HEAT

  • Avoid strenuous activity and direct exposure to the sun during the hottest parts of the day, specifically from 12 – 6 p.m.
  • Stay hydrated and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water.
  • Protect your skin using sunscreen.
  • Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Ensure your pets have plenty of cool, fresh water.
  • NEVER leave children or pets in the car. Even when temperatures outside are mild, the temperature inside the car can reach 100 degrees very quickly.

HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS

Extreme heat poses a substantial health risk, especially for vulnerable populations. It’s important to understand the warning signs of heat-related illness:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Muscle cramps
  • Weakness
  • Headache
  • Nausea

Vomiting, paleness, tiredness and dizziness can also be indicators of heat-related illness. To help prevent heat-related illness, be sure to use cool compresses or take a cold shower. Get medical attention if you experience a rapid, strong pulse, you feel delirious or have a body temperature above 102 degrees.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Children’s Water Safety

Swift Water Safety