County Public Health issues heat advisory as high temperatures expected this weekend

July 26, 2019

SOLANO COUNTY – Solano County Public Health is issuing a heat advisory for this weekend, as temperatures are expected to get as high as 108 degrees in some areas with little cooling overnight, according to the National Weather Service. These triple-digit temperatures may create a substantial health risk, and heat-related illnesses are possible.

"When temperatures are high, even a few hours of strenuous activity can lead to serious health problems," says Dr. Bela Matyas, the County's Public Health Officer.  “Everyone should take precautions, especially those who are frail and sensitive to the heat. It is important not to leave children, elderly people or pets unattended in homes with no air conditioning or in vehicles even if the windows are 'cracked’ or open.”

Unusually hot temperatures can affect a person’s health, especially when being exposed to the heat outdoors for long periods of time.  The populations most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses are the elderly, those who work or exercise outdoors, infants and children, the homeless, people with serious chronic medical conditions, and those without air conditioning at home.

“Check on neighbors, friends and family, especially children, the elderly, and those who are living alone to encourage them to stay in air-conditioned areas as much as possible,” added Dr. Matyas. “Tell them to seek medical care immediately if they have symptoms of heat-related illnesses.”

During this heat wave, be sure to take the necessary precautions to prevent serious health effects or heat-related illnesses. Consider some of the following tips to keep you and your family safe:

STAY COOL
- Stay in air-conditioned buildings and shelters, including the mall, library or public cooling center
- Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device
- Limit outdoor activities, especially during mid-day, and avoid direct sunlight
- Reschedule strenuous activities to the early morning and evening
- Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing
- Take cool showers or baths to lower body temperatures
- Do not leave children or pets unattended in vehicles under any circumstances
- Wear sunscreen – sunburn affects the body’s ability to cool down and can add to dehydration

STAY HYDRATED
- Drink more fluids than usual and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink
- Drink two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside
- Avoid alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar
- Make sure your family, friends and neighbors drink enough water

STAY INFORMED
- Keep your friends, family and neighbors aware of weather and heat safety information
- Check your local news for extreme heat warnings and safety tips
- Recognize the signs of a heat illness – if you think it may be life threatening, call 911

Know the signs of heat-related illnesses
Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat-related illness is a spectrum of disorders due to environmental factors, specifically heat exposure. Symptoms can be minor, with heat rash, cramps, headache and fatigue, to more severe and even life-threatening conditions like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

SYMPTOMS OF HEAT EXHAUSTION
- Weakness
- Skin is cold, pale and clammy
- Weak pulse
- Fainting and vomiting

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
- Move to a cooler location
- Lie down and loosen your clothing
- Apply cool, wet clothes to as much of your body as possible
- Drink plenty of water (avoid caffeine and alcohol)
- If you have vomited and it continues, seek medical attention immediately

SYMPTOMS OF HEAT STROKE
- High body temperature (above 103 degrees F)
- Hot, red, dry or moist skin
- Rapid and strong pulse
- Possible unconsciousness

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
- Call 911 immediately if you or someone you know has these symptoms
- Move the person to a cooler environment
- Reduce the person’s body temperature with cool cloths or even a bath
- Do NOT provide fluids

The Solano County public libraries serve as cooling centers for residents during normal operating hours.  City residents unable to utilize these facilities should contact their local city offices for information on cooling centers within their communities.

Visit www.CDC.Gov/ExtremeHeat for more tips and information for preventing heat-related illness.