Preparing for Extreme Heat
Extreme heat often results in the highest annual number of deaths among all weather-related disasters. FEMA V-1004/June 2018
While governments talk and plan, local citizens are subjected to extreme heat, and there is no sign that these occurrences will abate in the foreseeable future. So how should we prepare?
HeatReadyCA.com recommends:
1) Create a Plan– Planning can help protect you and vulnerable family members.
2) Find a Cooling Center—Stay inside your home or public place that is air-conditioned. At home, keep blinds closed to block as much sunlight as possible.
3) Stay Hydrated—Sip water or drinks fortified with electrolytes. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol. Eat fruits, vegetables, and foods with high water content.
4) Connect--Check in with friends and family and have them do the same for you. Stay tuned to local media sources for forecasts, alerts, and community resources.
5) Know the Signs—Learn the symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
There are many resources available from a wide variety of organizations and agencies. A few are listed below.
https://heat.gov/planning-preparing/
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/Pages/Communications-Toolkits/Heat-Summer-Safety.aspx
https://heathealth.info/resources/be-prepared-for-extreme-heat-u-s/
https://crisisequipped.com/how-to-prepare-for-extreme-heat/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDZhoBeaP7Q
https://cooking.nytimes.com/article/no-cook-recipes-heat-wave?campaign_id=90&emc=edit_fwd_20260703&
Also links to the State’s and City’s plans:
https://resources.ca.gov/SearchResults?search=Extreme%20Heat%20Preparedness%20