Extreme Heat Safety: Protect Yourself, Your Family, and Your Neighbors

Extreme heat is one of the leading weather-related causes of death in the United States. When high temperatures are combined with humidity, your body has to work much harder to cool itself, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

The City of Statesville encourages everyone to take extra precautions during times of extreme heat to protect themselves, their families, pets, and neighbors.

Stay Hydrated

One of the simplest ways to protect yourself is to drink plenty of water throughout the day - even if you don't feel thirsty.

• Drink water frequently before you become dehydrated.
• Avoid excessive amounts of alcohol, caffeine, and sugary beverages, which can contribute to dehydration.
• If you're sweating heavily, consider replacing lost electrolytes with a sports drink.

Stay Cool

Air conditioning is the best way to prevent heat-related illness.

If your home is not air conditioned:

• Spend time in an air-conditioned public building such as a library, shopping center, or another public facility.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day.
• Limit the use of ovens and other appliances that generate heat.

While fans can help circulate air, they should not be relied upon as the primary method of staying cool during periods of extreme heat and high humidity.

Limit Outdoor Activity

Whenever possible:

• Schedule outdoor work or exercise during the early morning or evening.
• Take frequent breaks in the shade or an air-conditioned area.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
• Apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat if you'll be outdoors.

Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness

Recognizing the warning signs can save a life. Heat Exhaustion Symptoms may include:

• Heavy sweating
• Weakness or fatigue
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Cool, pale, clammy skin

Move the person to a cool place, loosen clothing, apply cool cloths, and encourage them to sip water. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if someone experiences:

• Body temperature above 103°F
• Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
• Confusion or altered mental state
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures

While waiting for emergency responders, move the person to a cooler area and cool them with water or ice packs if possible.

Check on Others

Extreme heat can be especially dangerous for:

• Older adults
• Young children
• Pregnant women
• People with chronic medical conditions
• Individuals who work outdoors
• Those without access to air conditioning

Take a few moments to check on family members, friends, neighbors, and anyone who may need extra assistance during the heat.

Never Leave Children or Pets in a Vehicle

Temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise dramatically in just minutes - even with the windows cracked.

Never leave children, older adults, or pets unattended in a vehicle. If you see someone in immediate danger inside a hot vehicle, call 911 immediately.

Don't Forget Your Pets

Pets are vulnerable to extreme heat too.

• Ensure they always have access to fresh water.
• Provide shade or keep them indoors during the hottest hours.
• Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when pavement is cooler.
• Never leave pets in parked vehicles.

Stay Weather Aware

Monitor local weather forecasts throughout the week, especially if you have outdoor plans. Pay attention to any Heat Advisories, Heat Watches, or Extreme Heat Warnings issued by the National Weather Service.

Stay Safe, Statesville

The City of Statesville is committed to helping keep our community safe during periods of extreme weather. By taking a few simple precautions, we can all reduce the risk of heat-related illness and help protect those most vulnerable.

If you're spending time outdoors this week, remember to drink water, seek shade, take breaks, and check on those around you. A few simple actions can make a big difference during periods of extreme heat.

Stay safe, stay hydrated, and take care of one another.

Learn more on extreme heat from Ready.gov here.