The Chesapeake Region of the American Red Cross and the Frederick County Department of Emergency Preparedness remind residents to take extra precautions during days with extremely high temperatures
Red Cross & Emergency Officials Urge Caution on Extremely Hot Days
FREDERICK, MD – The Chesapeake Region of the American Red Cross and the Frederick County Department of Emergency Preparedness remind residents to take extra precautions during days with extremely high temperatures.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory from Noon to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday due to expected heat index values between 100 and 105 and temperatures in the middle and upper 90s. Residents and employees who expect to be outside for an extended period of time, as well as those who are sensitive to the heat, may be at risk for heat exhaustion and other related illness.
“As the summertime heat arrives a little early, citizens should be aware of the dangers and signs of heat-related illness and use caution during outdoor activities,” said Emergency Services Program Manager Judy Peterson of the Chesapeake Region, American Red Cross. “If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion such as pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness and weakness, move the person to a cooler place, apply cool, wet cloths to his or her skin and have the person slowly drink cool water. For additional information, the American Red Cross just released a free first aid app for Android and iPhone smart phones. Visit the Android Market or App Store to download this life-saving new tool.”
Director Seamus Mooney of the Emergency Preparedness Department added, “We encourage everyone to drink plenty of fluids on extremely hot days, stay in an air-conditioned area, avoid prolonged time in the sun, remember to check on neighbors and relatives, and, when planning to be outside, wear light colored and loose fitting clothing.”
For more information on preparing for, responding to and recovering from emergencies and hazards, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/READY or www.redcross.org. Additionally, the Department of Emergency Preparedness may be contacted at 301-600-1746 or via e-mail at EM@FrederickCountyMD.gov. Citizens are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/ALERT.