Extreme Caution Advisory: High Temperatures Continue in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles County Department of Health Services is issuing an "Extreme Caution Advisory" due to the National Weather Service's forecast of very warm daytime temperatures for parts of Southern California. "While people don't need to be told it's hot outside, they do need to be reminded how to take care of themselves, children, elderly and even their pets when the weather gets this hot," said Jonathan Fielding, M.D., M.P.H., Public Health Director and County Health Officer. "Triple-digit temperatures are expected in the valley and desert areas of Los Angeles County. When the temperature is this high, prolonged sun exposure may cause dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.”

If you plan to be outdoors, please take precautions to protect yourself from the heat. Insufficient water or salt intake and a deficiency in the production of sweat cause heat exhaustion. Symptoms includes dizziness, fatigue, faintness, headaches, skin that is pale and clammy; rapid and weak pulse; fast and shallow breathing; muscle cramps; and intense thirst. Individuals with these symptoms should be removed to a cooler, shaded place and given fluids such as sport drinks.

Health department officials recommend several ways to manage the heat:

* Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.

* Drink water often; don't wait until you are thirsty.

* Offer assistance to shut-ins in your neighborhood; check on them frequently during hot weather.

* During peak heat hours stay in an air-conditioned area. If you don't have access to air conditioning in your home, visit public facilities such as shopping malls, parks, and libraries to stay cool.

* Avoid unnecessary exertion if you are outside or in a non- air conditioned building.

*Avoid unnecessary sun exposure. When in the sun, wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim.

* If you know seniors or people whose immune and respiratory systems are not working properly or who live alone, check on them regularly to make sure they are staying cool.

* An early warning sign of heat-related illnesses is diminished judgment. The use of the buddy system is important in all situations. Check on seniors frequently.

* Never leave children, elderly people or pets unattended in closed cars or other vehicles, since temperatures can quickly rise to life-threatening levels.

Public Health is committed to protecting and improving the health of the nearly 10 million residents of Los Angeles County. Through a variety of programs, community partnerships and services, Public Health oversees environmental health, disease control and community and family health. Public Health comprises more than 3,800 employees and has an annual budget exceeding $600 million.

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