Feeling hot, hot, hot? I'm hot, you're hot, he's hot, she's hot! Before we get to the "Ole, Ole" chorus, let's talk heat safety!
Excessive heat is often ignored or forgotten about as a weather hazard. Heat is a real threat and can be a challenge for all, especially the oldest and youngest Pennsylvanians. We're moving into the typical hottest and muggiest months of the year for Pennsylvania.
The National Weather Service(NWS) issues heat advisories and excessive heat warnings when heat or the combination of heat and humidity is forecast to be impactful to life safety. While the NWS will alert you to be prepared for potential illness or other problems, you must take the necessary actions to prevent illness.
Follow these basic tips to cool down when temperatures rise.
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These tips can help reduce heat illness and death.
- Stay Hydrated! Drink plenty of water on a regular basis. Avoid beverages with caffeine, sugar, and alcohol as they dehydrate the body.
- Take a Break! If you're working outdoors, regularly stop to rest in the shade or air conditioning.
- 10 to 3 - Not for Me: Avoid strenuous activities outdoors during the hottest part of the day, typically from 10 AM - 3 PM.
- Knock & Talk: Be a good neighbor. Check on your older neighbors and those who are sick. Make sure they are drinking water and have a cool place to relax during the heat. If not, offer to take them to a cool place like a mall or library for a few hours.
- Look Before You Lock: Check the back seat of your car every time to ensure you don't forget kids or pets while running errands.
Heat Illness?
If someone gets sick and heat is to blame, quickly move them to shade or air conditioning and contact a medical professional. Know the signs of heat stroke, which is a medical emergency and can only be treated in the hospital.