Precautions Urged During Triple-digit Weather

With temperatures in the triple digits, the Pasadena Fire Department and Pasadena Public Health Department remind everyone to take care of themselves, their children and their pets.  With high temperatures, both departments advise that people should minimize outdoor activity, especially during the hottest parts of the day, as a precaution.

Excessive heat can cause heat stroke, exhaustion, heat cramps and dehydration.  Insufficient water or salt intake may lead to a deficiency in the production of sweat, which may cause heat exhaustion.  Symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, headaches, pale and clammy skin, rapid and weak pulse, fast and shallow breathing, muscle cramps and intense thirst.  Anyone with these symptoms should be removed to a cooler, shaded location and given fluids such as water or sports drinks.

Anyone experiencing diminished judgment, disorientation, pale and clammy skin, rapid and weak pulse and/or fast and shallow breathing should receive immediate attention.

There are several ways to manage the heat:

• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
• Drink fluids often; don’t wait until you are thirsty.
• Offer assistance to shut-ins in your neighborhood and check on them frequently during hot weather.
• During peak heat hours, stay in an air-conditioned area.  If you don’t have access to air conditioning in your home, visit public facilities such as shopping malls, community centers and libraries
• Avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun.  Wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim, when out in the sunlight.
• Use the buddy system: Check in regularly with those you know who are senior citizens, ill or with compromised immune systems to make sure they are staying cool and drinking fluids.
• Never leave children, seniors or pets unattended in closed cars or other vehicles.  If you keep pets food and water bowls outside, be sure to clean and replenish water often. 

For more information, call Pasadena Fire Department at (626) 744-4675 or Pasadena Public Health Department at (626) 744-6005. Please visit the cityofpasadena.net website under the emergency preparedness link for more specific information.