Montgomery County has issued a Heat Emergency Alert from 12 – 6 pm on Monday, September 4. Residents should prepare for heat index values to reach 95+ degrees during the afternoon hours. These dangerously hot temperatures and heat index values could cause heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Try to stay in an air-conditioned location. Stay hydrated. When possible, take frequent breaks in a cool, shaded area.
Don’t forget your pets! If you see an animal outside who appears to be in danger, call the Animal Services Division at 301-279-8000. The following precautions will help residents remain safe and more comfortable during excessive heat days:
- Stay indoors, whenever possible. Keep in mind: Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, they may not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a better way to cool off. Use your stove and oven less to maintain a cooler temperature in your home. Visit nearby air-conditioned buildings in your community if your home is not air-conditioned. County facilities, including libraries, swimming pools, recreation centers and senior centersare places to cool off during normal operating hours. Public locations such as indoor malls could also be utilized.
- Be careful to avoid strenuous activities that can result in overexposure to the sun, such as sports and gardening. If you must do a strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning before 9 a.m.
- Drink plenty of water. Dehydration, cramps, exhaustion or heat stroke can result from not drinking enough fluids. Water is the safest liquid to drink.
- Avoid drinks containing alcohol or caffeine.
- When outdoors, wear proper protection from the sun. Light-colored clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen protection are strongly recommended.
- Never leave pets, young children, or the elderly in a vehicle for ANY amount of time, even with the window open, because the temperature inside parked cars can reach 130 degrees in only a few minutes.
- Monitor those at high risk. Those at greatest risk of heat-related illness include:
- Infants and children up to four years of age;
- Individuals 65 years of age and older;
- Individuals who are ill or on certain medications; and
- Individuals who are overweight.
Signs of Heat Exposure
Knowing the signs of heat exposure can prevent a life-threatening situation. Should any of the following occur, get out of the heat, loosen any tight or heavy clothing and drink plenty of water:
- Heat cramps: symptoms include painful muscle spasms, usually involving the abdominal muscles or legs;
- Heat exhaustion: first signs are cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, dizziness, nausea, headache and weakness;
- Heat stroke: the most serious sign of overexposure. Symptoms include red, hot, dry skin, weak pulse, rapid breathing and changes in consciousness. Seek medical attention by calling 9-1-1.