An Excessive Heat Watch is in effect from Saturday AM (7/23) through Monday PM (7/25). Heat index values may range from 100°F to 105°F Saturday afternoon. The high heat index will create hazardous conditions with potential for health-related impacts. Take precautions to prevent heat stress for the elderly, children, people who work outside and pets.
What you should do if the weather is extremely hot:
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
• Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities.
• Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation.
• Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• Drink plenty of water; even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
• Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.