Health department issues highest alert and gives tips on how to deal with summer heat | Local news

For this reason, the Santa Barbara County Health Department is issuing a health alert and urging residents to take necessary safety measures to avoid heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

One of the best ways to avoid the effects of the heat is to limit outdoor activities and schedule any outdoor activities for the cooler times of the day. If you are outside to work or relax, take regular breaks in the shade or an air-conditioned room if possible. A few hours in an air-conditioned environment can help your body stay cooler, as can a cool shower or bath.

Residents are urged to wear appropriate clothing. Lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing is best. Drink plenty of cool, nonalcoholic beverages, especially those without sugar or caffeine. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. If your doctor imposes fluid restrictions on you, ask how much you should drink in hot weather.

If you don’t have air conditioning, spend at least part of the day in a cool room. Electric fans can be comfortable, but they can’t prevent heat-related illness when temperatures are above 35 degrees Celsius.

Know the signs of heat exhaustion. If someone feels dizzy, nauseous, or sweats profusely, find him or her a cooler place immediately. Heat stroke is even worse than heat exhaustion and can be life-threatening. Symptoms are similar to those of heat exhaustion, but also include hot, flushed skin. With heat stroke, the person often stops sweating and the skin becomes unusually dry. If there is a possibility of heat stroke, call 911 immediately.

Community members are urged to be considerate of those who may be unaware of the danger or unable to respond appropriately – especially the elderly, young children and pets. Check on your neighbors.

Do not leave children and/or pets unattended in a vehicle, as on a relatively mild day it is only a matter of minutes for a vehicle to reach lethal temperatures.