The Heat is On

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat watch for Montgomery County for Friday, June 29.

It is going to be a scorcher with temperatures expected to climb to triple digits.

Brookside Gardens has already announced it will close its “Wings of Fancy” butterfly exhibit at noon because of the predicted high temperatures.

The high temperatures can be especially dangerous for those at risk including the elderly, the young, those with existing medical conditions and those that work outdoors.

While staying hydrated is essential all year long, it is particularly important when temperatures soar. Montgomery County Fire Chief Richard Bowers is urging residents to to stay cool, stay hydrated and to check on the welfare of elderly or at-risk neighbors. “Summer heat waves can be dangerous and even short periods of high temperatures cause serious health problems. Whether on the sports field or the construction site, folks need to take action to prevent heat-related illness.”

During hot weather and extreme heat this summer, keep informed by listening to local weather and news channels, use common sense and take a minute to review the tips below.

1. Pre-hydrate, hydrate and re-hydrate.
During hot weather you will need to increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level. Drink plenty of fluids in advance, during and after activities and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to hydrate. Warning: If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluids you drink or has prescribed water pills, ask how much you should drink when the weather is hot.

2. Dress for the heat.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect some of the sun’s energy. Limit your direct exposure to the sun and wear a hat for extra protection.

3. Monitor those at high risk.
Extreme heat can be hazardous to your health and although anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Those most at risk for heat-related illnesses include children, older adults, those that work or exercise outside and those with preexisting medical conditions. Elderly, low income or individuals with disabilities in Montgomery County in need of a fan can call 240-777-3000 for information on free fans.

4. Children and cars – use common sense.
Never leave infants, children, pets or the elderly in a parked car where temperatures can become life-threatening in minutes, even with the windows rolled down. Additionally, hot interior surfaces of a car can burn a child’s skin. Before you put your child in a car that has been parked in a warm/sunny spot, check the temperature of the carseat or upholstery first.

5. Avoid strenuous activity.
When possible, strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated or rescheduled to the coolest part of the day. Take regular breaks when exercising or engaged in physical activity on warm days. If you recognize that you, or someone else, is showing signs of a heat-related illness, stop the activity immediately, find a cool place to rest, hydrate and seek medical attention if necessary.

Remember, heat stroke is a MEDICAL EMERGENCY that can be fatal if not treated promptly. The American Red Cross advises that warning signs can vary among individuals but common signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke may include:
Heat Exhaustion:

– Heavy sweating
– Muscle cramps
– Pulse rate: fast and weak
– Breathing: fast and shallow
– Nausea or vomiting
– Fatigue
– Weakness
– Headache and/or dizziness
Heat Stroke:
– An extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees)
– The absence of sweating
– Rapid pulse
– Difficulty breathing
– Throbbing headache
– Strange behavior and/or hallucinations
– Confusion, agitation and disorientation
– Unconscious

6. Be a good neighbor.
Isolated, elderly adults are at a much higher risk of health-related issues. Be a good neighbor and take a minute to check in with your neighbors.

7. Remember your pets.
Hot weather can affect the well-being of pets making them susceptible to overheating which can lead to very dangerous heat stroke. Always provide a source of water and a cool, ventilated place for your pet. Leaving your pet inside a parked car, even for a few minutes, can be fatal. The inside of a car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes.

8. Stay indoors, if possible.
Stay indoors and, if possible, in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, consider going to the shopping mall, community center or public library. Even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you return to the heat.

The Montgomery County government is advising that libraries, recreation centers and pools are good places to cool off, along with shopping malls and movie theaters. To quickly find the location of public facilities, go to the My Montgomery website at http://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mymontgomery and type in your location. The website includes locations of pools, parks, libraries, regional services centers, recreation centers, Metro stations, hospitals and golf courses. Residents with questions about specific locations and hours of operation should call 311.

The City of Rockville has designated four cooling stations .The centers are located at the following facilities.

Lincoln Park Community Center, 357 Frederick Ave.
Rockville Senior Center, 1150 Carnation Drive
Thomas Farm Community Center, 700 Fallsgrove Drive
Twinbrook Community Recreation Center, 12920 Twinbrook Parkway

Residents using the cooling centers may stay in designated public areas for free. Residents who want to use the amenities (i.e. fitness rooms, computer labs or drop-in programs) may do so after paying a daily admission fee.

Cooling centers will be open during normal hours of operation. Check the City’s website at www.rockvillemd.gov for information.

An adult must accompany children using the cooling centers.

For more information, call the City of Rockville at 240-314-5000. Or visit the website, www.rockvillemd.gov.

The City of Gaithersburg is advising residents that the Gaithersburg Activity Center at Bohrer Park is open weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and can serve as a cooling center during extreme weather conditions. It is located at 506 S. Frederick Ave. next to Gaithersburg High School.

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