06/24/2021
High temperatures (over 100 degrees F.) are forecast for Thurston county this weekend. Temperatures this high can cause a range of heat-related health problems ranging from mild fatigue and dehydration to heat stroke and death.
Heat presents a particular danger to both older adults and the very young.
A number of precautions can take to reduce your risk and increase your comfort include:
1) Be attentive to how you feel. If fatigued, dizzy, or weak, stop what you are doing and rest in a cooler, shaded space. Seek medical attention if you don't recover quickly. External cooling (cool water on your head and body) might be needed if you are severely overheated.
2) Drink extra, non-caffeinated beverages. You should sip something every 60-90 minutes. Eat popsicles.
3) Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Cotton or linen encourages evaporation and are best.
4) Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day: generally, 11:00 am to around 3:00 pm. If you exercise, do it before 8:00 am if possible.
5) If you must be outdoors in the sun, wear a hat.
6) Check your air conditioning if you have it. See that any fans are working. Moving air, even if not cooled, helps your body cool itself. Avoid cooking.
7) Consider checking on family members, elderly neighbors, shut-ins to see that they are safe from the heat. REMEMBER: PETS SUFFER IN THE HEAT AS WELL. NO DOGS IN CARS!!!!!
8) If you cannot be cool in your home, consider going to the library, the movies, a bookstore, any public place you can rest and cool down. The water plaza off 4th ave downtown is great.
