Extreme Heat and Summer Safety

​Extreme Heat and Summer Safety

• Extreme heat events can happen anywhere and may occur quickly and without warning.
• Older adults, children, and sick or overweight individuals are disproportionately affected by extreme heat events.
• Humidity increases the feeling of heat as measured by a heat index.
• Exposing yourself to the sun or temperatures higher than 77 degrees Fahrenheit does not protect you from COVID-19.
• Never leave children, adults, or pets in a closed car.

• Stay cool indoors by using air conditioning, if possible.
• Contact your non-emergency hotline for assistance finding a cooling center. While at cooling centers, be sure to maintain social distancing, avoid gathering in groups, and wear a cloth face covering to slow the spread of COVID-19.
• During extreme heat events, choose a cloth face covering that has breathable fabric, such as cotton, instead of polyester.
• Avoid strenuous and high-energy activities.
• If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.
• Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.
• Check on family members and neighbors by phone or text to maintain social distancing and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
• Know the signs of heat-related illness like heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. If you or someone you care for is on a special diet, ask a doctor how best to accommodate it.
• Do not use electric fans when the temperature outside is more than 95 degrees. Using fans could increase the risk of heat-related illness. Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort, but do not reduce body temperature.