We are in the season of hot temperatures and increasing humidity.
As heat indices rise, please keep the following information in mind:
Locally, there are established water station sites at:
💧 The Hope Center at Hagerstown Rescue Mission
💧 Horizon Goodwill Industries
💧 Reach of Washington County
A updated guide of drop-in centers to escape the heat can be found at: www.reachofwc.org/resources-2.
To learn more on excessive heat preparedness, visit https://www.washco-md.net/emergency-management/emerg-prep/extreme-heat/
Here are important tips for staying safe when the heat is extreme from the Maryland Department of Health –
- When the heat index is high, stay indoors as much as possible.
- Move to the lower floors of your building.
- Schedule outdoor activities for cooler times of the day, before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
- Wear light-weight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
- Drink plenty of water before starting any outdoor activity.
- During outdoor activities, take frequent breaks and drink water or other fluids every 15 to 20 minutes, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- NEVER leave infants, pets, children, or the elderly inside a parked car.
- Dress infants and children in cool, loose-fitting clothing and shade their face with a hat or umbrella.
- Fans will not prevent a heat-related illness. Take a cool shower or bath or move to a room with air conditioning.
- Check on adults you know that are at-risk for heat-related illness at least twice a day.
- Constantly monitor children for signs of heat-related illnesses.
- Apply sunscreen of SPF15 or higher at least 30 minutes prior to heading out. Continue to apply as the package directs. The most effective products are those that say “Broad Spectrum” or “UVA/UVB Protection” on their labels.
- Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your eyes and face in the sun.
- Reduce caffeine intake from beverages including coffee, tea, cola, and other heavily caffeinated beverages. Avoid drinking certain types of beverages: Alcoholic beverages and drinks that are high in sugar; Very cold drinks, as they can cause stomach cramps.
- Avoid eating hot foods or heavy meals as they add heat to your body.
