June 19, 2012

Extreme Hot Weather Notice

As many of you may know, excessive heat is the number one weather-related killer, causing more fatalities per year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined. As we begin this heat wave, please see the attached safety information from the American Red Cross. Feel free to forward them as appropriate to relatives, friends, neighbors and co-workers.

A few quick tips:

Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun’s energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella.
Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.
Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m.
Stay indoors when possible. If air-conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember that electric fans do not cool, they simply circulate the air.
Be a good neighbor. During heat waves, check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.
Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles, and always check on them frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.
Learn Red Cross first aid and CPR. Check out our new First Aid App by clicking here. It is crucial to know what to do if an emergency situation arises.

Click the following links for additional information:

CT Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Extreme Hot Weather Notice
American Red Cross Urges Caution in Summer Heat
Heat Wave Safety Checklist
Heat Wave Safety Checklist - Spanish

A Heat Advisory has been issued and record breaking heat is expected over the next few days.