Genesee County is expected to experience extreme heat this week. Extreme heat is when temperatures are much hotter than average over consecutive days. During extreme heat, body temperature can rise faster than the body can cool itself down. Heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heat stroke occur when the body cannot properly cool itself. This can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs.

Check on your neighbors and family members and ensure they have plenty of water and access to a cool environment. People with disabilities, older adults, and children are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

The Genesee County Health Department is reminding residents of the following safety steps to take when temperatures and heat indexes are high:

• Stay cool by using an air conditioner or going to a cool place such as a basement, neighbor’s house, shopping mall, or cooling center. Even a few hours a day in air conditioning can help reduce your risk of heat illness.
• Only use electric fans when the temperature outside is under 95 degrees. Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort, but do not reduce body temperature.
• Take a cool shower or bath.
• Close shades and curtains to block the sun from heating up your home or workplace.
• Outdoor workers should consume adequate fluids (water and sport drinks), work shorter shifts, take frequent breaks, and quickly identify any heat illness symptoms. Employers should consider making changes to workload and schedules in these conditions.
• Avoid strenuous physical activity during the hottest part of the day. Mornings and evenings are usually cooler than midday.
• Stay out of the sun. If you must be in the sun, wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Drink plenty of water and do not wait until you’re thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine because both can cause dehydration.
• Never leave people or pets in parked vehicles. Vehicles heat up very quickly and can become dangerous, even with the windows open.
• Consider pet safety. If your pets are outside, make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade. Hardscaped surfaces such as asphalt and concrete can be very hot for your pet’s feet and can cause burns.

Learn more about preparing for and staying safe during periods of extreme heat by visiting https://www.ready.gov/heat

GCHD provides services on behalf of the Genesee County Board of Commissioners. GCHD is committed to enhancing community well-being in Genesee County by preventing disease, promoting health, and protecting against environmental hazards. Our mission focuses on creating a healthier, safer environment for all residents.