What Can Families and Communities Do to Lower their Exposure to the Harmful Health Effects of Extreme Heat?

Families and communities should prepare as best as they can for extreme heat events. First, learn how to know when an extreme heat event is happening in your area. Ask your medical provider if you have specific health concerns. To lower your or your child’s risk of getting sick from extreme heat:

• Wear protective clothes (loose, light-colored clothing, hats, sunglasses, SPF-lined).
• Wear sunscreen SPF > 30, (reapply at least every two hours and after swimming/sweating).
• Avoid outdoor activity during peak sun (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and try to find shady areas.
• Drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated and take breaks to rest often.
• If your home does not have air conditioning, find a nearby building that does. Libraries and shopping malls can be great places for a cool retreat from the heat. Some pet stores serve as cooling centers for families to come with their pets.
• Never leave children in vehicles alone, not even for a minute.