Long Beach Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis is advising residents to take precautions against the heat this week, through Sunday, Aug. 6. The National Weather Service is forecasting highs in the 80s to low 90s in parts of Long Beach and high humidity.
“High heat and humidity cause the body to work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which is why it is important to practice heat precautions to protect from heat-related illness and injury,” Davis said.
Pets can experience heat-related illness and injury, and the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, infants and young children are at even greater risk. Therefore, Davis is advising that everyone take the following precautions to reduce the risk of heat-related illness and injury:
• Seek air-conditioned environments during peak heat at places such as stores, malls and theaters. All Parks, Recreation & Marine community centers are designated cooling centers. (A list of community centers and hours of operation are available at bit.ly/LongBeachCoolingCenters.)
• Check on frail elderly or homebound individuals to make sure they are not affected by the heat.
• Never leave a child or pet in a parked car or asleep in direct sunlight.
• Remain hydrated by drinking water before, during and after outdoor activities.
• Make sure pets have plenty of shade and water to drink.
• Take frequent breaks while working or playing outdoors.
• Wear loose-fitting, light clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to cover face, ears and neck when outside.
• Apply sunscreen (at least SPF 15) 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapply at least every two hours.
• Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid beverages that have caffeine or alcohol.
• Plan strenuous outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day. Limit time outside during peak heat.
• Pace physical activities, starting slowly and picking up the pace gradually.
• Wear sunglasses that provide 100-percent UVA and UVB protection. Chronic exposure to sun can cause cataracts.
• Move to a cooler location at first sign of heat illness that may include: dizziness, nausea, headaches and muscle cramps. Rest and slowly drink a cool liquid.
• Prevent children from drowning by providing adult supervision at all times and having an entry-proof barrier that surrounds the pool or spa.
More information and summer safety tips are available at longbeach.gov/health.
Source: City of LB
