Surviving this weekend’s extreme heat in Baltimore: 5 things to know
The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat watch for Saturday that includes most of the Baltimore-Washington region and Baltimore City has declared a Code Red extreme heat alert from Friday to Monday. All of that to say the next few days will be hotter than hot.
Here are five things to know about surviving the extreme heat.
Pay attention to the heat index
The heat index is a number that combines air temperature with relative humidity to reflect what a hot day actually feels like to your body. Keep in mind, your body sweats and then cools itself as the moisture evaporates from your skin. However, when the humidity is high, this process slows, meaning it takes longer to cool down. “In other words, the human body feels warmer in humid conditions,” the National Weather Service says. This weekend’s forecast calls for a heat index of up to 110 in the Baltimore region. In direct sunlight, the heat index may be even higher.
Do not leave children or pets in the car
This seems obvious, but already at least two children have died this year from being left in a hot car, according to the National Safety Council. Last year, 29 children perished. On average, 37 children age 15 or younger die each year from heatstroke after being left in the car at temperatures less than what is forecast for this weekend. “Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes,” the National Weather Service warns about the coming forecast. Research shows more than half of the deaths are caused when a child is forgotten by a parent or caregiver. Experts suggest leaving your purse or wallet in the back seat as a reminder. Also, keep your vehicle locked and keep keys away from children. And this may be the weekend to leave the pets at home.
Seek out air-conditioned spaces
We know several city schools lack air conditioning, but there are also plenty of Baltimore homes that do not have central A/C or that rely only on window units. The Baltimore City Health Department will open cooling centers throughout the city. Some Pratt Library locations will also act as cool air spaces during their normal business hours. In addition, city health officials recommend residents who do not have air conditioning try covering windows or making temporary window reflectors using aluminum foil-covered cardboard. Cool baths, misting bottles and staying hydrated will also help.
Be alert to signs of heat-related illnesses
Heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke are all potential escalating outcomes to exposure to extreme heat, with cramps being the mildest form of heat illness, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. At the other end of the spectrum of concern is heatstroke, which is life-threatening and requires emergency intervention. Symptoms of heatstroke include high fever, fast heart rate, headache, confusion, nausea and vomiting. If you can, move the victim to a cool area, use ice packs on the armpits or groin and call 911.
Pets can also be vulnerable to heat illness. To avoid overheating, walk your dog in the early morning or after sunset. Choose shady areas when possible and don’t forget to bring water.
Stay inside, stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity
Skip the outdoor errands and stay inside from about noon to 3 p.m., when the sun is typically at its strongest, recommends the American Heart Association, which warns the heat can take a toll on your heart health. Wear light-colored and lightweight fabrics in cotton or materials that repel sweat. Add a hat and sunglasses — plus sunscreen. Stay hydrated, but avoid caffeinated drinks and alcoholic beverages. If you need to be active, consider walking at the mall or going to a gym or rec center rather than exercising outdoors.
“Heat-related deaths and illnesses are mostly preventable if proper safety measures are taken,” said Joseph C. Wu, president of the American Heart Association and director of the Stanford Cardiovascular Institute in a news release Thursday. “Precautions are especially important for infants and older adults and people with high blood pressure, obesity or a history of heart disease or stroke. While some people are more vulnerable to problems from heat, extreme temperatures can cause health issues for anyone.”