Montgomery County health and emergency management officials are urging residents to take precautions as a prolonged heat wave is expected to impact the region through at least Friday, July 17. Heat index values, or “feels like” temperatures, could reach as high as 106 degrees, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Officials recommend staying hydrated, spending time in air-conditioned spaces, avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and checking on older adults, neighbors, and others who may be vulnerable to the heat. Workers exposed to high temperatures are also reminded of Maryland’s heat safety requirements, including access to water, shade, and rest. Under state law, employers must provide at least 15 minutes of rest every hour when the heat index reaches 100 degrees.
Per Montgomery County:
Heat Safety Tips
Montgomery County encourages residents to:
- Stay indoors, whenever possible. Keep blinds or curtains closed to keep the inside cooler.
- Keep in mind: Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, they may not prevent a heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a better way to cool off.
- Use the stove and oven less to maintain a cooler temperature.
- 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.
- If you are spending time outdoors, take frequent breaks in a cool, shaded location.
- 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 alcohol or caffeine.
- When outdoors, wear proper protection from the sun. Light-colored clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are strongly recommended.
- Never leave people or pets in a vehicle for ANY amount of time, even with the window open. The temperature inside parked cars can reach over 130 degrees in only a few minutes.
- Monitor and frequently check on 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.
- Individuals who are overweight.
- Individuals who must work in high heat environments like construction, landscaping, and in kitchens.
Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness
Extreme heat affects the body’s ability to regulate temperature, which can create dangerous conditions if appropriate safety measures are not taken. Heat may affect air quality, especially in urban areas, and may have a stronger impact on the elderly, children and sick persons.
- Heat cramps may cause painful muscle spasms, especially in the legs or abdomen.
- Heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea, weakness and cool, clammy skin. Move to a cooler location, loosen clothing and drink water.
- Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Symptoms include a body temperature above 103 degrees, hot, red skin, confusion, loss of consciousness and rapid breathing. Call 911 immediately and begin cooling the person while waiting for emergency responders.
Protect Your Pets
Pets are also vulnerable to extreme heat. Never leave animals unattended in vehicles or outdoors without shade and access to fresh water. The Montgomery County Office of Animal Services reminds residents that Executive Regulation 17-17, Anti-Cruelty Conditions for Dogs and Other Pets, will be enforced during periods of dangerous heat.
More information
Follow Montgomery County on Facebook, Instagram and X. Information on the heat emergency and hot weather safety tips is available on the Heat Emergency webpage and the Be Cool, Montgomery website.
