As California heads into unseasonably warm temperatures, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) reminds everyone that certain populations are at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses, including people with access and functional needs (AFN) like people with disabilities, older adults, children, limited English proficiency and transportation disadvantaged.
Here are some preparedness suggestions to keep in mind:
CREATE A SUPPORT NETWORK
Identify individuals in your life, such as family, friends, and neighbors, who could help support you and check in on you.
Remember, creating an emergency preparedness plan based on your personal needs is critical to ensure you and your loved ones remain safe during an emergency.
SIGN UP FOR ALERTS AND NOTIFICATIONS
Sign up for emergency alerts with your county or local officials. You can choose how to get alerts sent to you when you sign up, including cell phone, home phone, email, text messages, and in some cases, TTY devices. And also, sign up for a medical baseline program, an assistance program for people who depend on power for certain medical needs.
STAY HYDRATED:
- Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
- Consider sports drinks to replenish electrolytes.
Note: If your doctor limits the amount of fluid you drink, or if you take water pills, ask him or her how much you should drink when the weather is hot. If you are on a low-salt diet, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage.
CHECK ON OTHERS
Check on elderly neighbors, those with health conditions, and young children. Make sure they have access to cool spaces and are staying hydrated.
HEAT ILLINESS SYMPTOMS
- Familiarize yourself with symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- Know how to respond to these illnesses.
Heat stroke symptoms can include high body temperature, dizziness, rapid heart rate, confusion, and loss of consciousness. Call 9-1-1. Heat exhaustions signs include sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and headache. Move to a cool place and get medical help if symptoms get worse or last longer than one hour.
WEATHER
- Check the forecast at weather.gov before making outdoor plans.
- If possible, avoid peak heat hours, as this exposes you to higher temperatures and UV rays.
STAY COOL
Visit a local library, community center or shopping center, take cool showers or baths and wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
Additional Heat Safety Tips:
Heat and Infants and Children | Natural Disasters and Severe Weather | CDC