With high
temperatures predicted through this week in Sacramento County, those who are
more sensitive to the heat may be at increased risk of heat illnesses like heat
exhaustion and heat stroke. We count on our community to look after one
another, including those who might need special attention such as seniors or
those with mobility issues and ask that you look in on friends and relatives
who may need attention and support.
To provide a
cool place for people to get out of the heat, local organizations are opening
their doors: view list of organizations with days and times of operation on the 211 website.
Sacramento
County Office of Emergency Services will support the community organizations with
staffing, supplies, and any assistance that is required. The centers will be
safe places to cool down, with water and light snacks. Days of operation will be adjusted depending on the
weather. Chief of Sacramento County Office of Emergency Services, Steve
Cantelme, said the County will not officially open a center unless the day and
night-time heat is prolonged and meets temperature thresholds and they will
continue to work with community organizations to maintain centers. Follow
Sacramento OES on twitter @SacramentoOES and Facebook
facebook.com/SacramentoOES for additional information throughout the
week.
Dr. Kasirye,
Public Health Officer for Sacramento County, reminds people of options for
places to cool down, such as shopping malls, community centers, public
libraries, coffee shops and friends’ homes. “It’s especially important
for older and at-risk individuals to take precautions to avoid heat stress
because they may not adjust well to sudden changes in temperature, and are more
likely to have a chronic medical condition that makes them more prone to
complications due to heat stress.” Because of this, Social Workers with
the County’s Department of Health and Human Services in the Senior and Adult
Services Division regularly monitor their clients during heat spells.
“Drink plenty
of water and get out of the heat for a couple of hours a day,” said County
Executive Bradley J. Hudson. “Spending a few hours cooling down will allow the
body to recover and tolerate the heat better for the rest of the day.”
Prevention is the key. Limit outside activities, avoid becoming
dehydrated, drink plenty of water, stay in a cool environment, and dress
appropriately.
Tips for Beating the Heat:
- Drink plenty of water and avoid very cold drinks; don’t wait until you are thirsty
- Take a cool shower to lower your body temperature
- Limit your exposure to the sun – stay indoors where it is air-conditioned or go an air conditioned public place
- Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing
- Avoid strenuous activities if you are outside or in non-air conditioned buildings. If you are working outdoors, take frequent rest and refreshment breaks in a shaded area
- Never leave children, elderly people or pets unattended in closed cars or other vehicles
Prolonged
exposure to excessive temperatures may cause serious conditions like heat
exhaustion or heat stroke and can even be fatal. Symptoms of heat
exhaustion may include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, headache,
nausea or vomiting and dizziness. Warning signs of heat stroke may
include an extremely high body temperature, unconsciousness, confusion, hot and
dry skin (no sweating), a rapid, strong pulse, and a throbbing headache. If
symptoms of heat stroke occur, immediately call 9-1-1 for medical assistance
and take immediate action to begin cooling the person.
For more information on heat related illnesses, visit the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention website at http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/.
Additional
Information and Resources: