Extreme Heat

During time of high heat, it is important to stay well hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activity.

The following suggestions are to prevent heat-related injury:

  • Stay out of the sun
  • Limit outdoor activity
  • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
  • Drink plenty of water, juice or sports drinks
  • Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages
  • For mother who are breastfeeding, increase the amount of breastfeeding
  • Formula-fed infants
    • Age 6 to 12 months: offer 4 to 8 ounces of water in a cup
    • Less than 6 months: talk to your doctor
  • Medications may affect your heat tolerance: Talk to your doctor
  • Eat light meals
  • Wear wide-brimmed hats when outside
  • Take frequent cool showers or baths
  • Keep your air conditioner well maintained
  • If your indoor temperature remains above 90 degrees, seek shelter in an air-conditioned building

Symptoms that need immediate medical attention:

  • Profuse sweating and muscle cramping
  • Body temperature of 105 degrees F with hot, dry skin
  • Confusion or unconsciousness
  • IF YOU BELIEVE YOU OR SOMEONE IN YOUR CARE NEEDS MEDICAL ATTENTION, DIAL 911

The following groups could be considered at greater risk for heat-related injury:

  • Infants and small children under age four
  • Women who are pregnant
  • People age 65 and above
  • People with medical problems, like heart conditions or high blood pressure
  • Pets
    • Never leave your pets in a car or tied up without shade, air circulation and water on warm days
    • Be alert for signs of stress: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, vomiting and deep red or purple tongue
    • Cool your overheated pets by moving them to the shade and applying cool water all over their bodies.
    • Provide regular amounts of drinking water
    • If conditions do not improve, take your pets to a veterinarian for evaluation

For more information about extreme heat, visit:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Web site on extreme heat