Take Precautions to Avoid Heat-Related Illness
Baltimore, MD (June 18, 2018) – The Maryland Department of Health is alerting residents of rising temperatures forecast this week. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the heat index (how hot it feels) will reach the upper 90 to low 100 degrees across Maryland today. The NWS has issued a heat advisory until 8 p.m. today for Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Charles, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George’s, and Washington Counties, as well as Baltimore City.
Marylanders should be aware of the dangers posed by extreme heat. Anyone can be a victim of a heat-related illness, such as people working or exercising on hot days. Those most at risk are children under age of five, people over the age of 65, people with chronic illnesses and disabilities, and people taking certain medications.
“Temperatures can rise especially quickly inside hot cars,” said Deputy Secretary for Public Health Dr. Howard Haft. “Never leave children or pets inside a car, even for a minute, even if the windows are cracked. It could be deadly.”
The Department recommends that residents limit their time outdoors, especially during the hottest part of the day. Drink plenty of water (avoid alcohol or caffeine), wear sunscreen, move to the lower floors of your home, and stay in air-conditioned buildings. If your home is not air-conditioned, consider visiting a shopping mall, public library, or family or friends who have air conditioning. Check on those who could be at risk for heat-related illness.
Marylanders in need of a cooling center should contact their local health department or visit the Maryland Department of Health’s Extreme Heat website by clicking here.
Residents in need of energy assistance to keep cool this summer should call 2-1-1, Maryland’s information and referral service, to see if there are resources available to help. Maryland 2-1-1 can also provide information on locating the cooling center closest to you.
More information about staying safe in hot weather is available on the Office of Preparedness and Response’s Facebook page and Twitter page.
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