May 20, 2022
A large part of the United States has been, or will soon be, experiencing extreme heat conditions (high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for several days). The body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature in extreme heat, and heat-related distress can occur quickly and without warning.
Extreme heat can be dangerous for all, but especially for older adults and people with chronic conditions. Take steps to prepare and stay safe using these tips from Ready.gov:
- Find air conditioning.
- Avoid strenuous activities.
- Wear light clothing.
- Check on family members and neighbors.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.
- Never leave people or pets in a closed car.
Check out the Extreme Heat Safety Social Media Toolkit and other resources from Ready.gov, Heat.gov, the CDC, and the National Institutes of Health.