The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for Montgomery County until 8:00 p.m. Friday, June 29 and a Heat Advisory for the remaining area until 8:00 p.m. Thursday, June 28. High temperatures are predicted to be near 100 degrees during the late afternoon with lows above 70 degrees during the night time hours through Friday.
The extreme temperatures can feel like walking into a wall of heat when venturing outside. The American Red Cross encourages people to take steps to safely endure the soaring temps. People should prepare now for the impending heat.
Follow these tips to stay safe during the heat:
- Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles, even if the windows are down.
- Drink plenty of fluids such as water, juices or Gatorade.
- Eat small meals, and eat more often.
- Avoid extreme temperature changes.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day (usually between 2-5 p.m.).
- Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat.
- Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
- Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
- Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Ensure they have water and a shady place to rest.
Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. To help avoid problems, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and limit drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
If someone is experiencing heat cramps in the legs or abdomen, get them to a cooler place, have them rest, lightly stretch the affected muscle and replenish their fluids with a half a glass (about 4 ounces) of cool water every 15 minutes.
When you notice a person exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion (cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness exhaustion), move them to a cooler place, remove or loosen tight clothing and spray the person with water or apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If they are conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call Sinclair Police immediately at ext. 2700.
Heat strokes are life threatening. Signs include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting; and high body temperature. If you are on campus, contact Sinclair Police immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by immersing them up to their neck in cold water if possible. Otherwise, douse or spray the person with cold water, or cover the person with cold, wet towels or bags of ice.
For more information on staying safe during this heat wave, view the American Red Cross Heat Wave Safety Checklist.
