County of Sonoma health officials issue heat alert

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The County of Sonoma Department of Health Services has issued a Heat Alert in response to the National Weather Service’s Excessive Heat Warning for the inland areas from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday, August 16.

The heat alert applies to inland valley areas of Sonoma County, where high temperatures are forecast in the high 90s and low 100s. The heat is expected to arrive on Monday and last through Wednesday, with Tuesday being the hottest day.

These weather conditions can cause heat stroke and worsen chronic medical conditions, leading to severe complications and death. Sonoma County Deputy Health Officer Dr. Kismet Baldwin urges residents to take simple steps to stay cool and help prevent heat-related illnesses.

“Extreme heat can pose dangers, but there are many things we can do to reduce heat-related problems,” said Dr. Baldwin. “While summertime heat can be dangerous for anyone, including young, healthy people, those most at risk include older adults, young children and those with chronic medical conditions such as heart, breathing or lung conditions.”

To protect yourself and your family when the weather is very hot, follow the tips below:

• Never leave anyone including children or pets in a parked car, even briefly. Temperatures in the car can become dangerous within a few minutes.
• Use air-conditioning to cool down or go to an air-conditioned building such as a mall or movie theater. Check indoor mask requirements for the public space you will be visiting.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink more fluids. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask how much you should drink while the weather is hot.
• Beat the heat with cool showers and baths.
• Stay out of the sun as much as possible.
• When possible, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day (between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.) and take regular breaks from physical activity.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing to help keep cool.
• Wear sunscreen and a ventilated hat (e.g., straw or mesh) when in the sun and even if it is cloudy.
• Be aware that some medicines affect the body's ability to sweat and stay cool, including antihistamines, antidepressants, over-the-counter sleeping pills, anti-diarrhea pills, beta blockers, and psychiatric drugs. Do NOT stop taking medication unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
• Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly or those in poor health to see if they need assistance.

For more information about keeping cool in the summer heat, visit the county emergency information website, www.socoemergency.org/heat or call 211. Updates on heat conditions are available from the National Weather Service www.weather.gov.  

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Contact Information:
Matt Brown, Communications Specialist
Media: publicaffairs@sonoma-county.org 
Media: (707) 565-3040
575 Administration Drive, Suite 104A
Santa Rosa, CA 95403