The City of Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department) is advising residents to take precautions to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses, especially while participating in outdoor activities. The elderly, people with chronic illnesses, infants and young children are at greater risk for heat-related conditions, however everyone should take precautions to reduce the risk of illness.
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• Remain hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after outdoor activities
• Take frequent breaks while working or playing outdoors
• Wear loose-fitting, light clothing and a hat while outside
• Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid beverages that have caffeine or alcohol
• Plan strenuous outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day, and limit time outside during peak heat
• Pace physical activities, starting slowly and picking up the pace gradually
• Seek air-conditioned environments during peak heat at stores, malls, theaters, etc.
• Check on frail, elderly or home-bound individuals to make sure they are not affected by the heat
• Move to a cooler location at first sign of heat illness (dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps), then rest and slowly drink a cool liquid
• Never leave a child or pet in a parked car or asleep in the direct sunlight
• Make sure pets have plenty of shade and water to drink
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For more information on how to “stay cool” during hot weather, visit the Health Department’s website at longbeach.gov/health.