Beat the heat with these safety tips

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Extreme heat makes the body work extra hard to keep a normal temperature. You can become ill if your body can’t keep itself cool. With high temperatures this week, Lorain County Public Health (LCPH) reminds you to make your health and safety a priority in extreme heat. Most importantly, never leave children or pets alone in hot vehicles. Even with the windows rolled down, the temperature in a vehicle can rise up to 20 degrees in just 10 minutes. 

“Staying cool is the best way to prevent heat related illness and death,” said Mark Adams, MPH, REHS, health commissioner at LCPH. In high heat and humidity, fans alone are not enough. Get inside an air conditioned space like your home, a library, shopping center, museum, or senior center. Even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help you stay cooler. If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor of your building or take a cool shower or bath. 

Here are a few more ways to keep yourself and your family safe during this heat wave. 

  • Stay in air conditioning as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. 
  • Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
  • Eat light, cool, easy-to-digest foods like fruit or salads.
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes. Avoid dark colors because they absorb heat from the sun.
  • Limit physical activity, especially during the hottest parts of the day (11 a.m. - 2 p.m.).
  • Check on older adults and people who are ill or may need extra help.
  • Check on your pets to ensure they also stay safe during this heat wave.

Get more information about staying safe in extreme heat:

  • Check the local news for health and safety updates. 
  • Call 211 to find a public facility near you that has air conditioning. 

Find more tips at Ready.gov/heat or CDC.gov/extreme-heat