As temperatures rise across Montgomery County, the Department of Transportation (MCDOT) is helping riders stay safe and hydrated. Due to this week’s heat advisory, MCDOT has placed complimentary water bottles on Ride On buses for the comfort of riders, while supplies last. The decision to add water on the buses was a proactive measure to ensure the well-being of passengers.
Ride On is committed to keeping riders safe and moving. Water bottles will be placed at the front of the bus and are limited to one water bottle per person. The Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security has issued a Heat Emergency Alert effective 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 1, through 8 a.m. on Monday, July 6, due to the National Weather Service forecast for extremely dangerous temperatures and heat index values. Residents should prepare for the heat index (the “feels like” temperature) to reach 105 degrees during the afternoon.
A Heat Emergency Alert is declared when the temperature or heat index is forecast to be 105 degrees or higher for two days or more. While nighttime temperatures will be lower, they still pose a health threat with extended exposure.
Extreme heat impairs the body’s ability to regulate temperature, creating 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 individuals who have underlying health conditions.
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Symptoms of heat-related illnesses may include painful muscle spasms or cramps, pale or flushed skin that may be damp or cool, dizziness, nausea, headache, and early-stage weakness. In extreme cases, red, hot, dry skin, weak pulse, rapid breathing, and changes in consciousness can occur, in which case residents should seek medical attention immediately by calling 911.
Information on bus schedules is available on MCDOT’s website and on the Ride On Trip Planner app.
The County has implemented a zero-fare policy for all Ride On, Ride On extRa, Ride On Flex, and Flash buses.
For the most up-to-date bus service information, riders should follow @RideOnMCT on X, Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. In addition, information is available at rideonbus.com, by subscribing to receive email alerts or by texting MONTGOMERY RIDEON to 62463 to receive text alerts. Message and Data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Reply HELP for help or contact support@granicus.com, reply STOP to cancel.
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For information on MCDOT programs and services visit montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot, follow @MCDOTNow on X, Bluesky, Instagram, Facebook and subscribe to MCDOT’s “Go Montgomery!” newsletter.
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Read the original article at mcgov