With a warming trend moving through California, 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 comfortable and safe during a heat event.
DURING A HEAT EVENT
- 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 with SPF 30 or above.
- 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 in less than 10 minutes.
If you do not have access to air conditioning, find a public cooling center near you. Cooling centers in your county can be found here.
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. Symptoms include:
- 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, misting, showers and baths. Get medical attention if you experience a rapid, strong pulse, you feel delirious or have a body temperature above 102 degrees.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: