6 Essential Tips to Stay Safe in a Heat Wave

US-CLIMATE-WEATHER-HEAT — Source: SAUL LOEB / Getty

Extreme heat waves are becoming more frequent and severe, posing significant risks to health and safety. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to dehydration, heat-related illnesses, and even life-threatening conditions like heat stroke. Vulnerable groups, including older adults, children, and those with medical conditions, are particularly at risk. However, with proper preparation and awareness, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of extreme heat.

From staying hydrated to recognizing the signs of heat illness, there are simple yet effective steps you can take to stay safe during a heat wave. Whether it’s creating an emergency kit, finding cool spaces, or checking on neighbors, these actions can make a big difference. Read on for six essential tips to help you beat the heat and stay safe when temperatures soar.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. Avoid sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic beverages, as they can worsen dehydration. If you’re sweating a lot, replenish lost electrolytes with sports drinks or salty snacks.

Keep Cool: Spend time in air-conditioned spaces, such as libraries, malls, or cooling centers. If air conditioning isn’t available, take cool showers or baths. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to stay comfortable.
Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours (typically midday). If you must be outside, schedule tasks for early morning or late evening, and take frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas.
Prepare Emergency Supplies: Stock up on essentials like water, non-perishable food, and medications. Create a Go-Kit with at least three days’ worth of supplies and a Stay-at-Home Kit with two weeks’ worth. Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and backup power sources for medical devices.
Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Keep an eye on older adults, children, pregnant women, and those with medical conditions. Ensure they have access to cool spaces and are staying hydrated. Don’t forget to check on pets, too!
Recognize Heat Illness Symptoms: Learn to identify heat-related illnesses like heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Act quickly if symptoms arise—move to a cool place, hydrate, and seek medical help if necessary.

By following these tips, you can protect yourself and your loved ones during extreme heat events. Stay safe and stay cool!

Need to beat the heat in the DMV? Check out these cooling centers.

Prince George’s County

The following permanent Cooling Center Locations will be open to the General Public: Weekday Hours of Operation (10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.); During weekend hours, residents are encouraged to call the facility to confirm hours of operation. All centers will offer a cooling area with seating anytime temperatures reach 90 degrees or higher.

You can also see a list of locations available at this map.

Baden Community Center – 13601 Baden-Westwood Road, Brandywine, 301-888-1500
Bladensburg Community Center Park – 4500 57th Avenue, Bladensburg, 301-277-2124; Información en español: 301-445-4509
Cedar Heights Community Center Park – 1200 Glen Willow Drive, Seat Pleasant 301-773-8881
College Park Community Center Park and Soccer Complex – 5051 Pierce Avenue, College Park 301-441-2647
Glassmanor Community Center Park – 1101 Marcy Avenue, Oxon Hill 301-567-6033
Glenarden / Theresa Banks Complex – 8615 McLain Avenue, Glenarden 301-772-3151
Hillcrest Heights Community Center Park – 2300 Oxon Run Drive, Temple Hills 301-505-0897
John E. Howard Community Center Park – 4400 Shell Street, Capitol Heights 301-735-3340
Kentland Community Center Park – 2411 Pinebrook Avenue, Landover 301-386-2278
Langley Park Community Center – 1500 Merrimac Drive, Hyattsville 301-445-4508
Largo/Perrywood/Kettering Community Park School Center – 431 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro 301-390-8390
Marlow Heights Community Center Park – 2800 St. Clair Drive, Marlow Heights 301-423-0505
North Brentwood Community Center Park – 4012 Webster Street, North Brentwood 301-864-0756
Oakcrest Community Park School Center – 1300 Capitol Heights Boulevard, Capitol Heights 301-736-5355
Patuxent Community Center – 4410 Bishopmill Drive, Upper Marlboro 301-780-7577
Peppermill Village Community Center Park – 610 Hill Road, Landover 301-350-8410
Prince George’s Plaza Community Center – 6600 Adelphi Road, Hyattsville 301-864-1611
Rollingcrest/Chillum Community Center Park – 6120 Sargent Road, Chillum 301-853-2005
Southern Regional Technology and Recreation Complex – 7007 Bock Road, Fort Washington 301-749-4160
Suitland Community Park School Center – 5600 Regency Lane, Forestville 301-736-3518
Temple Hills Community Center Park – 5300 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills 301-894-6616
Vansville Community Center – 6813 Ammendale Road, Beltsville 301-937-6621

They will also be opening the following Senior Centers:

Camp Springs Senior Activity Center, 6420 Allentown Road, Camp Springs, 301-449-0490 – open until 4:30 pm weekdays; Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.; Closed Sundays
Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activity Center, 7120 Contee Road, Laurel, 301-206-3350 – closed Sundays
John E. Howard Senior Activity Center, 4400 Shell Street, Capitol Heights, 301-735-2400 – open until 3:30 pm weekdays and closed weekends

Senior residents can also contact the Prince George’s County Department of Family Services Administration on Aging at (301) 265-8450 for information or assistance.

Montgomery County

At this time, Montgomery County is not operating cooling centers. However, County facilities, including libraries, recreation, and senior centers, as well as regional services centers are open during normal business hours and may provide respite from the heat. Outdoor and indoor pools are open, however admission rates will apply. For information, click here.

6 Essential Tips to Stay Safe in a Heat Wave was originally published on woldcnews.com