The Californer - City of Long Beach Advises Residents to Take Precautions Against Extreme Heat

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Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - As temperatures rise this week, City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis is urging residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. The National Weather Service has predicted excessive temperatures on Wednesday, Oct. 2, with highs reaching the upper 90s in certain areas of Long Beach. The warmer weather is expected to continue through the weekend, with highs in the upper 80s to low 90s.

To combat the heat, all City Parks, Recreation and Marine Community Centers and Long Beach Public Library locations will serve as designated cooling centers during their regular business hours. Residents are advised to contact these facilities beforehand to confirm their availability in case of unexpected closures.

In addition, it is important for individuals to check on friends, family and neighbors who may be home-bound to ensure they are not being adversely affected by the heat.

While older adults, those with chronic illnesses, infants and young children are at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses, anyone can suffer from them. Therefore, it is crucial for everyone to take necessary precautions to reduce the risk of heat-related illness and injury.

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To stay cool during this hot weather, residents are advised to wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. It is also recommended to limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours (noon-6 p.m.) or seek shelter in air-conditioned spaces or take a cool shower or bath.

Staying hydrated is also essential in preventing heat-related illnesses. Residents should drink plenty of fluids throughout the day and avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks which can cause dehydration. Replacing lost salt and minerals through sports drinks or salty snacks is also recommended. It is important for pet owners to ensure their pets have access to water as well.

Individuals with chronic health conditions or those taking water pills should consult their healthcare provider for guidance on staying hydrated during this time.

To protect against heat-related illnesses while outdoors, it is advised to apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher at least 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection, and providing shade and water for pets are also important measures to take.

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It is crucial to never leave a child or pet in a parked car or in direct sunlight as temperatures can rise quickly and lead to heat-related illnesses.

If someone experiences a temperature of 103 degrees or above, loses consciousness, has a fast and strong pulse, or if symptoms last longer than an hour or worsen, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Other signs of heat-related illness include heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, headache, and confusion.

While swimming pools may seem like a refreshing way to cool off during hot weather, it is important to ensure that there are entry-proof barriers around pools and spas. Adult supervision should also be provided at all times when children are near water.

For more information on how to stay safe during extreme heat conditions, residents can visit longbeach.gov/extremeheat or call 562.570.7907. They can also follow the Health Department on Facebook, X and Instagram for updates.

Media inquiries can be directed to Jennifer Rice Epstein, Public Affairs Officer for the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services at 562.441.3590 or Jennifer.RiceEpstein@longbeach.gov.

Filed Under: Government, City

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