Our area is expecting high temperatures and high humidity throughout the day today and tomorrow, July 20, with temperatures potentially reaching 100 degrees and a heat index of over 105 degrees.
We are urging all residents – especially those who are at high risk for health problems – to stay indoors as much as possible and limit activity and sun exposure.
- Drink plenty of water – 2 to 4 glasses per hour
- Limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day (between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.)
- Go to air-conditioned public spaces such as a mall, library, movie theater, or community center
- Prevent sunburn by applying sunscreen if you must be outside (SPF 15 or higher)
- Wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks that cause dehydration
- Take a cool shower or go swimming
- Wear a ventilated hat, such as straw or mesh
- Never leave children or pets alone in vehicles
- Use caution with electric fans; they create air flow and a sense of comfort, but do not lower body temperature.
- Protect your pets, keep them inside with air conditioning or fans and make sure they have plenty of water.
- Prepare for temporary power outages ahead of time by assembling essential supplies such as flashlights, batteries, bottled water and food.
Know the signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses:
Heat stroke is most serious. Signs and symptoms include an extremely high body temperature above 103 degrees; hot, dry, red skin; rapid pulse; loss of alertness; confusion; rapid and shallow breathing and unconsciousness. Call 911 immediately and cool the person quickly.
Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat related illness and is characterized by heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting, cool clammy skin, fainting. Move the person to a cool place, loosen clothes and apply cool, wet cloths.
If you see someone showing these symptoms, move the person to a cool place, loosen their clothes and apply cool, wet cloths.
Additional links:
- For general information: tompkinscountyny.gov/health/summer/heat.
- TompkinsReady: tompkinscountyny.gov/tompkinsready
- National Weather Service heat safety tips: weather.gov/safety
- Red Cross heat safety tips: RedCross.org: How to prepare for emergencies.
- National Weather Service Ithaca forecast page: weather.gov/bgm
Visit the Department of Emergency Response online,tompkinscountyny.gov/doer . Follow us on Facebook @tcemergencyresponse and Twitter @TompkinsDoER.
