County Offers Tips on Surviving the Heat

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Contact: Kathleen Henning, 240-777-2300
For Immediate Release: July 25, 2001

County Offers Tips on
Surviving the Heat

With summer temperatures on the rise this week, Montgomery County is encouraging residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

The current heat wave calls for temperatures of 90şor more, along with ozone levels that can be hazardous to citizens. Most at risk are young children, the elderly, and people with health problems such as asthma who are susceptible to heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and exhaustion.

By taking the following precautions, citizens can remain safe and comfortable during the hot days of summer.

Stay indoors, whenever possible. Be careful to avoid strenuous activities that can result in overexposure to the sun, such as sports or gardening. If you must do a strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m.
When outdoors, wear proper protection from the sun. Light-colored clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen protection are recommended.
Drink plenty of water. Dehydration, cramps, exhaustion or stroke can result from not drinking enough fluids. Water is the safest liquid to drink. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine in them.

Knowing the symptoms of heat exposure can prevent serious heat illness from becoming life threatening. Should any of the following occur, be sure to get out of the heat, loosen any tight or heavy clothing, and drink plenty of water. If more extreme symptoms occur, seek emergency medical attention by calling 911.

Heat cramps: symptoms include painful muscle spasms, usually involving the abdominal muscles or legs.
Heat exhaustion: first signs are cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, dizziness, nausea, headache and weakness.

Heat stroke: the most serious sign of overexposure. Symptoms include red, hot, dry skin, weak pulse, rapid breathing, and changes in consciousness. See emergency medical attention by calling 911.

For more information on weather safety, please call the Office of Emergency Management at 240-777-2300 or the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Outreach Office at 240-777-2448. Additional information, including brochures for distribution to community groups, can be obtained by calling the Montgomery County Chapter of the American Red Cross at 301-588-2515.

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