En Español: Prepárese para Calor Excesivo este Fin de Semana
San Rafael, CA – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the inland Bay Area for this Friday through Sunday. Groups most at risk to heat include children, older adults, people experiencing homelessness, people with pre-existing conditions, indoor and outdoor workers, emergency responders, low-income communities, pregnant people, and athletes.
The Marin County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Marin County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) are advising vulnerable residents to prepare for excessive heat this weekend by planning ahead, staying cool, hydrated, and informed. Learn more at HeatReadyCA.com and stay up-to-date during this excessive heat event by visiting the county’s emergency portal, emergency.marincounty.org.
"With summertime temperatures heating up this weekend, it is crucial for Marin County residents to review health guidance and safety measures to protect themselves and their loved ones from extreme heat impacts," said Dr. Lisa Santora, Deputy Public Health Officer at Marin County Health and Human Services. "Small steps can make a big difference in beating the heat and staying cool and healthy during extreme temperatures."
Plan Ahead
Stay Cool
- Plan outdoor activities before noon or in the evening.
- Stay indoors as much as possible, limit sun exposure.
- Take cool baths or showers.
- Draw curtains over windows to limit direct sunlight indoors.
- Place a damp towel around your shoulders to reduce body heat.
- If needed, go to a cool place such as a mall or library for relief from heat.
Stay Hydrated
- Drink more fluids than usual, even if you don’t feel thirsty (consult your health care provider if you’re on a fluid restricted diet).
- Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine: they increase the heat’s effects on your body.
Look After Each Other
- Have a buddy system: During a heat wave, check on medically vulnerable family members, friends, neighbors, and co-workers.
- Monitor local news for the latest information on the weather forecast.
- MarinHHS.org offers tips on handling hot weather.
- Consult PG&E’s guide for keeping homes cool and creating a more energy efficient home.
Warning Signs of Heat Problems
Heat Cramps
Heat cramps are painful, involuntary muscle spasms that usually occur during heavy exercise in the heat. If you suspect heat cramps, rest, cool down, and hydrate with an electrolyte-containing sports drink. Call your health care provider if your cramps don't go away within one hour or so.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a condition that happens when your body overheats. Symptoms may include thirst, weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, heavy sweating and a rapid pulse. If you think you have heat exhaustion: stop all activity and rest; move to a cooler place; drink cool water or sports drinks. Contact your health care provider if your symptoms get worse or they don't improve within one hour. If you're with someone who has heat exhaustion, seek immediate medical help if they become confused or distressed, lose consciousness, or are unable to drink.
Heat Stroke
This most serious form of heat injury, heat stroke, can occur if your body temperature rises to 104° F (40° C) or higher. Heat stroke requires emergency treatment. Signs and symptoms include: altered mental state or behavior, alteration in sweating, hot and dry or flushed skin, nausea, and vomiting, rapid breathing, racing heart rate, and headache. If you think a person may be experiencing heat stroke, seek immediate medical help. Call 911 and take immediate action to cool the overheated person while waiting for emergency treatment.