There is an extreme heat warning for most of our state both today and tomorrow and I wanted to remind all Marylanders to take the necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
This morning, our Cabinet Secretaries, state agencies and county and local government partners joined together on a call to talk about our State’s emergency plan. I’m happy to report back that we are well-prepared for this emergency and will utilize all of the resources necessary to protect our citizens.
Here is a list of simple strategies:
*Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water and avoid caffeine and alcohol
*Avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors
*Avoid direct exposure to the sun and seek shade and shelter at the first signs of heat exposure
*Wear lightweight and loose clothing
*Spend as much time as possible in an air-conditioned location, including shopping malls, local libraries, or cooling shelters
*Never leave children, the elderly or pets unattended in a car, even with the windows partly rolled down
*Check on people living alone or with chronic health problems, especially those without air conditioning.
I always like to emphasize the last point. In our One Maryland, we are all in this together so please check on your elderly neighbors and those who may need assistance.
You can also help by sharing this link that contains more helpful heat warnings and health tips: http://www.dhmh.state.md.us/diseases/heatrelated.html
