When a heatwave hits Southern California, it’s more than just uncomfortable, it can be dangerous if proper safety precautions aren’t taken. With temperatures soaring this August, it’s important to know how to stay safe and cool. Whether you’re stuck in traffic, escaping to the beach, or just trying to stay cool at a museum, a few smart moves can help you beat the heat and avoid serious health risks.
Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and cool during these scorching SoCal days:
☀️How To Stay Safe During A Heat Wave
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Stay Indoors: If possible, stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day when the sun is at its highest point.
- Seek Shade: If you must be outside, seek refuge from the sun. Limit your exposure to direct sunlight between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, when the sun’s rays are strongest.
- Use Air Conditioning or Fans: Keep your home cool with air conditioning or fans. If this is not a possibility, consider visiting a cooling center or public places like malls or libraries.
- Avoid Strenuous Activities: Postpone outdoor activities or exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Regularly check on pets, elderly family members, neighbors, and those with chronic medical conditions who may be more susceptible to heat-related illness.
For the full list of tips on how to stay safe during a heat wave, please visit NWS Heat Safety Tips.
☀️Protect Yourself From The Heat And Sun
- Drink plenty of water or beverages with electrolytes.
- Minimize direct exposure to the sun.
- Apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every 2 hours.
- Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing.
- Take regular breaks in the shade.
- Take a cool bath or shower.
❄️Los Angeles County Cooling Centers
Los Angeles County has opened designated cooling centers to support local residents without access to air-conditioning. Many local libraries and park recreation centers are registered cooling centers. You can find a full map and list of nearby cooling centers here. Additionally, Cool Spots LA provides information on many local cooling spots throughout the Los Angeles area.
☀️Avoid Heat Related Illnesses
There are 3 levels of heat related illnesses: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Each level can lead to the next if the symptoms are left unchecked and untreated. Here are the symptoms of each one:
Heat Cramps
- Symptoms: Painful muscle cramps and spasms usually in legs and abdomen. Heavy sweating.
- Seek immediate medical attention if cramps last longer than 1 hour!
Heat Exhaustion
- Symptoms: Heavy sweating; weakness or tiredness; cool, pale, clammy skin; fast, weak pulse; muscle cramps; dizziness, nausea or vomiting; headache; fainting.
- Seek immediate medical attention if the person vomits, symptoms gets worse, or last longer than 1 hour!
Heat Stroke
- Symptoms: Throbbing headache; confusion; slurred speech; nausea; dizziness; body temperature above 103°F; hot, red, dry or damp skin; rapid and strong pulse; fainting; loss of consciousness.
- Call 911, or get to a hospital immediately!