Montgomery County issues hyperthermia alert due to extreme heat

Courtesy of www.montgomerycountymd.gov/OPI/alerts/Heat.html:

County officials urge residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones from heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

A Hyperthermia alarm is issued for the county when the forecast temperatures and/or heat index in at least any portion of the county are 95 degrees or greater, creating a hazardous situation in which heat stroke and heat exhaustion are likely.

A Heat emergency alarm could be issued for the county if dangerously hot conditions exist, including but not limited to temperatures and/or a heat index of 105 degrees for a period of at least two days or longer, where it becomes dangerous for anyone exposed to that heat for an extended period of time.

Residents are also asked to check on elderly friends, relatives and neighbors who may be isolated to make sure they are not showing signs of heat-related illness.

Services for the homeless

Residents concerned about the well-being of a homeless person can call the 24-hour hotline at 240-907-2688. Outreach partners will attempt to locate the person and offer resources and support.

Animal services

The Montgomery County Police Department Animal Welfare Division reminds community members to be extra cautious with all pets during increased heat. Animals that are outdoors must have access to shade, shelter, and plenty of fresh water. If possible, it is recommended that normally outdoor pets be brought indoors during extreme heat.

• Pet Safety: Montgomery County Police Department Animal Welfare Division Director Thomas Koenig will enforce Executive Order 17-17, Section D, “Anti-Cruelty Conditions for Dogs,” which states: “During extreme weather conditions or weather emergencies, owners must not leave their pets unattended outdoors. Under Executive Regulations 17-17, the Director of the Animal Services Division of the Montgomery County Police Department has the authority to enforce animal cruelty conditions for dogs and other pets. Pet owners are advised to be especially cautious with pets in vehicles during high outdoor temperatures and to be aware of the signs of heat stress. “ The penalty for this violation is $500. This regulation is enforced whenever forecast temperatures could endanger the well-being of dogs. Additionally, Executive Regulation 17-17 advises owners not to leave their pets unattended outdoors during hyperthermia warnings. For more information on animal welfare and animal protection laws, click here.

Safety tips for hot weather

The following precautions will help keep residents safe and comfortable during days of extreme heat:

• Stay indoors whenever possible. Remember: Electric fans may be comfortable, but they cannot prevent heat-related illness when temperatures are above 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). Taking a cool shower or bath or staying in an air-conditioned room are better ways to cool down. Use the stove and oven less to maintain a cooler temperature in your home. Visit nearby air-conditioned buildings in your community if your home is not air-conditioned. County facilities, including Libraries, swimming pools, leisure centres and senior centres are places where you can cool off during normal operating hours. Public places such as shopping centers could also be used.
• Be sure to avoid strenuous activities that may lead to excessive sun exposure, such as exercise and gardening. If you must perform strenuous activity, do it during the coolest time of day, which is usually before 9 a.m.
• Drink plenty of water. Dehydration, cramps, exhaustion or heat stroke can all result from insufficient fluid intake. Water is the safest drink.
• Avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages.
• Wear appropriate sun protection when outdoors. Light clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are strongly recommended.
• Never leave pets, small children or elderly people in a vehicle for ANY period of time, even with the window open, as the temperature in parked cars can reach 54.4 °C in just a few minutes.
• Monitor high-risk individuals. People most at risk for heat-related illness include:
  • Infants and children up to four years of age;
  • Persons aged 65 and over;
  • People who are ill or taking certain medications; and
  • People who are overweight.

Signs of heat exposure

Knowing the signs of heat stress can help prevent life-threatening situations. If any of the following occur, get out of the heat, loosen tight or heavy clothing, and drink plenty of water:

• Heat cramps: Symptoms include painful muscle cramps, usually in the abdominal or leg muscles;
• Heat exhaustion: Initial signs include cool, clammy, pale or red skin, dizziness, nausea, headache and weakness;
• Heatstroke: the most serious sign of overexposure. Symptoms include red, hot, dry skin, weak pulse, rapid breathing, and changes in consciousness. Call 9-1-1 and seek medical attention.

For more informations:

For general information about county programs and services, call 3-1-1. Sign up for the county’s Alert Montgomery notification system at alert.montgomerycountymd.gov to receive emergency weather alerts and other emergency information.