In
advance of expected high temperatures next week, the City of Medford’s
Board of Health reminds residents of important steps you can take to
reduce heat-related illness, and issued reminders about keeping
yourself, your family, and your pets safe. For a full list of heat
safety tips and information, visit
www.mass.gov/info-details-extreme-heat-safety-tips.
Tips for Staying Cool
- Drink plenty of water, even if you are not thirsty. Avoid drinks that are high in sugar.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid wearing dark clothing, which can absorb light and increase body temperature.
- Avoid strenuous activity.
- Limit
outdoor activity. If you must be outdoors, limit your outdoor activity
to the morning and evening hours. Try to rest often in shady areas and
remember to wear sunscreen.
- If
you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the
sun. Use fans if possible to stay cool and avoid using your stove and
oven. You can also take a cool shower or bath to cool down.
- Check
in on your neighbors and family members, particularly those who may be
in need of additional assistance or who may not have air conditioning. Please use health and safety guidelines to reduce the spread of Covid-19.
Safety Reminders
- Never
leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle. Even with windows
cracked, interior temperatures can rise almost 20 degrees within 10
minutes.
- When
the air is hot, sidewalks can become very hot and can cause injury to
your pet’s paws. Make sure your pets have a shady, cool spot to rest
(keep them indoors as much as possible.)
- During extreme heat, people can be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Signs to watch for include:
- Cramps and muscle spasms caused by heavy sweating.
- Heat exhaustion: cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, nausea, dizziness, headache, weakness, and or/exhaustion.
- Heat
stroke: extremely high body temperature, hot and red skin, loss of
consciousness, shallow breathing, vomiting and/or seizures (if you or
someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seek help immediately.)
While
current Covid-19 guidance regarding assembly limits and social
distancing requirements prohibit the opening of our traditional cooling
centers, please be advised that even an hour or two in air conditioning
can prevent over-heating. Stores and malls that are currently open may
offer some relief.
