City of Tacoma Emergency Management recommends the following actions to minimize the health risks of hot weather throughout the summer.
Adjust your attire and activities to limit heat exposure and exertion!
If you are going out, plan to wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing that covers as much of your skin as practical. Limit your exposure to direct sunlight between 10AM and 4PM, when the sun's rays are at their strongest.
Drink plenty of water before you become thirsty and rest in the shade before you become tired!
Water is normally the best drink during hot weather, and you'll need more than you think. Avoid soda, alcohol, or caffeine as they can make the heat's effect on your body worse. Symptoms of dehydration and heat illness may include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, nausea, muscle cramps, headache, and vomiting.
Consider a cool place to visit or stay during the hottest part of the day.
Libraries, (note that Tacoma libraries are closed on Sunday and Monday) theaters, shopping malls and community facilities such as
senior centers and
parks may offer an air-conditioned refuge.
Many heat emergencies occur with people exercising, working or staying alone. Use a buddy system and check on
elderly, disabled or at-risk neighbors on a regular basis. If you suspect someone is experiencing a medical emergency from extreme heat exposure, call 9-1-1.
Never leave children, pets or dependent adults alone in a hot car.
Even with the windows down, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can quickly rise to lethal levels.
More detailed heat safety information can be found at the
TPCHD,
National Weather Service and the
Center for Disease Control.
