SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) urges Californians to protect themselves from extreme heat over the Fourth of July weekend and remaining summer months by staying cool, hydrated, connected and informed.
“Summer heat waves can be dangerous, especially for young children, older adults, people with chronic diseases and disabilities, outdoor workers, people who are unhoused and those who are pregnant,” said CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Tomás Aragón. “It’s important to protect yourself and your loved ones by checking in on friends and family who may need assistance, monitoring weather forecasts, staying hydrated, limiting time outdoors, and visiting cooling centers.”
Stay Cool (During the Hottest Times of the Day):
- Those without air conditioning should check with their city or county for cooling centers or visit public locations such as a library or shopping mall.
- Avoid physical exertion or exercising outdoors.
- Wear lightweight, light colored, loose clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Stay Hydrated:
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, even when not thirsty; drink sports drinks (in moderation with water) to help replace electrolytes lost during exercise.
- Avoid sugary, alcoholic, and very cold drinks.
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Stay Connected:
- Monitor those at high risk of heat-related illness including infants and young children; people 65 years of age or older; individuals with chronic illness, disabilities or who are pregnant.
- Use a buddy system when working in the heat.
Stay Informed:
- Check the local news for weather forecasts, extreme heat alerts, and cooling centers.
WHAT IS EXTREME HEAT: Extreme heat is defined in most of the U.S. as an extended period (2 to 3 days) of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees. Extreme heat often results in the highest annual number of deaths among all weather-related disasters. California is experiencing more frequent episodes of extreme heat, posing a greater danger to Californians from heat-related illness.
