English - Extreme Heat Prevention

Extreme Heat Prevention

Summer months can mean excessive heat warnings and watches for much of California. When the National Weather Service forecasts an Extreme Heat Risk for the state, hot conditions range from 105 to 115 degrees for multiple days and little overnight relief. Learn how you can stay safe from heat at ready.ca.gov, determine risk at heatreadyca.com, check on neighbors, utilize local cooling centers, stay informed by watching local news for weather forecasts and extreme heat alerts, practice pet safety, learn about lost pet tips, and stay safe around the water.

Tulare County and incorporated cities offer Cooling Centers during the hot daytime hours for those who don’t have air conditioning. The list of Cooling Centers county-wide is available anytime at https://tchhsa.org/eng/public-health/public-health-emergency-preparedness-phep/cooling-and-warming-centers-live-interactive-map, or call 2-1-1 of Tulare County.

Community members should protect themselves against heat-related illnesses during high heat conditions by following these recommended measures:

Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages.
NEVER leave any person or animal in parked vehicles. Temperatures can exceed 120 degrees within 10 minutes, even with the windows down, resulting in serious illness or death.
Use air conditioning or spend time in air-conditioned locations like malls or libraries.
Use portable electric fans to exhaust hot air from rooms or draw in cooler air.
Avoid unnecessary physical activity if you are outside or in a hot building.
Avoid going out in the heat and direct sunlight if you can, or rest often in shady areas.
When exposed to direct sunlight, wear a head covering.
Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting cotton clothing.
Eat salt-free, light, and easy-to-digest foods such as fruit or salad; avoid heavy meals.
Ask your physician if you need to make changes to daily medications when exposed to high temperatures.
Keep electric lights down low or turned off and avoid using your oven.
Keep shades drawn and blinds closed but windows slightly open (if you are without A/C)
Take a cool bath or shower periodically, or apply cool towels to cool down your body.
Keep in contact with friends and family who may be at greater risk of heat illness, such as infants and young children, the elderly, and those with health risks.