The Heat is On… Stay Safe!

As the dog days of summer settle in, hot and humid conditions have taken hold, and heat index values are beginning to climb steadily. Heat advisories will soon become part of the forecast mix as we go through July, August and even September. This hot and soupy recipe equates to a greater risk for heat-related illnesses, and precautions must be taken now to stay safe.

For all residents, the safest place during periods of extreme heat is indoors in an air-conditioned environment whenever possible. Vulnerable residents who need relief from the heat are encouraged to visit Orange County libraries, community centers, or seek assistance through the County’s network of homeless shelter partners, which has expanded capacity during periods of extreme heat.

With prolonged exposure to extreme heat, your body is more at risk for experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating and weakness. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not received.

Tips for Residents

When the body cannot control temperature, body temperature rises rapidly, and sweating mechanisms can fail. Orange County is asking residents to remain inside as much as possible. Other tips help the body maintain a proper temperature:

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight
Schedule outdoor tasks for either earlier in the day or later in the day
Drink a cup of cool water every 20 minutes when working outside
Hydrate with beverages that contain electrolytes
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher
Take breaks indoors with air conditioning when possible (cooling locations)

Certain groups are especially vulnerable to extreme heat, including infants and young children, pregnant women, older adults, outdoor workers, athletes and individuals with medical conditions. Residents are encouraged to check on elderly neighbors, family members, and others who may need assistance during periods of excessive heat.

Tips to Keep Pets Safe

The summer heat can be just as dangerous for pets as it is for people. Pet owners should take extra precautions to protect their animals from heat-related illness, especially when temperatures soar.

Hot Days Mean Hot Cars

Even on days that may not feel exceptionally hot, temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise quickly.
A car’s interior temperature can increase by 20 degrees in just 10 minutes and by 40 to 50 degrees within an hour.
Partially or fully opened windows do little to prevent a vehicle from becoming dangerously hot.
Pets left inside can suffer heatstroke in a matter of minutes, potentially resulting in organ damage or death.

Know the Signs of Heatstroke

Pets are more susceptible to heatstroke than humans because they cannot cool themselves as efficiently.
Warning signs include excessive panting, heavy drooling, vomiting, weakness, or collapse.
Leave pets at home when possible, and never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle, even for a few minutes.
If you see a pet in distress inside a hot vehicle, call emergency services immediately.

For any heat-related emergencies, call 911 immediately. For additional heat safety tips, visit Florida Disaster or go to #GetSummerReady. For current heat advisories, visit the National Weather Service.

The Heat is On… Stay Safe!

Mayor Demings

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