The best ways to remain protected from the ill effects of heat are to dress appropriately, stay indoors, refrain from strenuous work or exercise during the hottest part of the day - and stay hydrated.
Plan in advance to wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing that covers as much of your skin as practical, and a well-ventilated hat with a wide brim. Stay in the shade whenever possible.
Water is usually the best liquid to drink during hot weather. If you have a pre-existing medical condition or are under a doctor's care, consult with a Physician to determine your best plan for liquid intake.
Drinks with alcohol or caffeine can make the heat's effects on your body worse. Avoid salt tablets unless directed by a doctor, and plan on eating light, healthy meals.
Symptoms of dehydration and heat illness may not be easily recognized, but often include fatigue, nausea, headache and vomiting. Drink before you become thirsty and rest before you become tired. If you feel ill, tell someone immediately.
Many heat emergencies occur to people who are exercising, working or staying alone. We suggest you use a buddy system, and also check on elderly, disabled or at-risk neighbors on a regular basis.
If your home does not have air conditioning, consider a cool place to visit or stay during the hottest part of the day. Schools, libraries, theaters, shopping malls and community facilities such as Senior Citizen Centers and park facilities may provide an air-conditioned refuge. To find a City of Los Angeles cooling center near you, call City Hall Ambassadors at 3-1-1 or visit lacity.org
Pets, horses, and livestock are also susceptible to hot weather. See that the special needs of your animals are met, including copious shade and plenty of cool water.
In fact, now is a great time to examine your daily activities and discuss hot weather safety with your family, neighbors, co-workers and Physician. If you suspect someone is experiencing a medical emergency as a result of extreme heat exposure, call 9-1-1.
Firefighters will be keeping a close eye on local weather trends, including fire weather. You can help them by remaining aware of the dangers of hot weather, and keeping your home, neighborhood and workplace safe until cooler temperatures prevail.
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Children, Hot Weather & Cars = Danger!
During hot weather - and throughout the year, the Los Angeles Fire Department asks you to consider some important safety tips for vehicles and children.
We need your help to make sure that no child dies needlessly by being left alone in a hot vehicle.
- Always put something you'll need - such as your phone, handbag, a sunshade, lunch or briefcase on the floor in the back seat. This will make you open the back door of your vehicle every time you reach a destination. This way, making sure no child is left behind becomes a habit. Safety experts call this the ' Look...Then Lock ' campaign.
- Keep a large teddy bear in the child's car seat when it's not occupied. When the child is placed in the seat, put the teddy bear in the front passenger seat. It's a great visual reminder that anytime the teddy bear is up front, a child is secured in a child safety seat behind you!
- Make arrangements with your child's day care center or babysitter that you will always call them when your child will not be there on a particular day as scheduled. This is not only common courtesy, but makes sure everyone involved in the care of your child is informed of their whereabouts. Ask these caregivers to always phone you if your child doesn't show up when expected.
- If you see a child (dependent adult or pet) alone in a hot vehicle, get involved. If they are hot or seem sick, get them out as quickly and safely as possible. Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number for assistance as necessary.
- Never leave your car keys where children can access them, and always make sure your car is locked so that children cannot get in without adult supervision.
- Do not underestimate a child's capabilities. Teach your children about the dangers of a car, especially the car trunk. Most children can differentiate between a tool and a toy. Make certain they know that a car is not a toy!
For additional information about child and vehicle safety:
Please share this information with your friends and family!
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Finally, a reminder. In California, leaving a pet in a hot car is a crime.
Take a look at this:
Hot Oven, Hot Car... It's http://bit.ly/TheSame !
Respectfully Yours in Safety and Service,
Brian Humphrey
Firefighter/Specialist
Public Service Officer
Los Angeles Fire Department
"Serving with Courage, Integrity and Pride"
LAFD Home Page: http://lafd.org
LAFD News Blog: http://lafd.blogspot.com
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