Montgomery County health and emergency management officials urge residents to make precautions as a prolonged period of dangerous heat and humidity is expected to impact the region beginning Wednesday, July 1, and continuing through at least Sunday, July 5. The 4th of July holiday weekend is traditionally full of gatherings with friends and family, often held outdoors. Officials urge everyone to stay alert to weather reports and social media to get the most up-to-date information.
According to the National Weather Service, daytime temperatures are expected to reach the upper 90s and lower 100s. Heat index values, or “feels like” temperatures, are forecast to range from 102 to 108 degrees, with isolated areas potentially approaching 110 degrees or higher. Warm overnight temperatures will provide little relief and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
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“Extreme heat can become life-threatening very quickly,” said Dr. Kisha Davis, County health officer. “As residents prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday, I encourage everyone to stay hydrated, limit time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day and check on neighbors, older adults, and anyone who may not have access to reliable air conditioning. A simple phone call or visit can make all the difference.”
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 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.
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.
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More information
Follow Montgomery County on Facebook, Instagram and X @MontgomeryCoMD. Information on the heat emergency and hot weather safety tips are available on the Heat Emergency webpage.
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Read the original article at mcgov