The Heat is On

Summer in the Pacific Northwest usually seems to start July 5th, but it looks like Mother Nature has plans to start a few days early this year.   The extended forecast for the Metro area, is calling for hot temperatures with high humidity beginning Friday and temps reaching the mid 90's Monday and Tuesday.

A few tips on keeping Family, Friends, and pets safe

  Stay indoors and in an air-conditioned environment as much as possible unless you're sure your body has a high tolerance for heat.

  Drink plenty of fluids but avoid beverages that contain alcohol, caffeine or a lot of sugar.

  Never leave any person or pet in a parked vehicle.

  Check frequently on people who are elderly, ill or may need help. If you need help, arrange to have family, friends or neighbors check in with you at least twice a day throughout warm weather periods.

  Make sure pets have plenty of water.

If you go outside

  Plan strenuous outdoor activities for early or late in the day when temperatures are cooler; then gradually build up tolerance for warmer conditions.

  Take frequent breaks when working outdoors.

  Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sun block and light-colored, loose-fitting clothes when outdoors.

  At first signs of heat illness (dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps), move to a cooler location, rest for a few minutes and slowly drink a cool beverage. Seek medical attention immediately if you do not feel better.

  Avoid sunburn: Use a sunscreen lotion with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating.

But even on hot days, many rivers and lakes in Southwest Washington remain cold in early summer.

  Cold water − especially when high or swift − can immobilize even the strongest swimmer in minutes.

  Know the water: Washington waters are cold enough to cause hypothermia even on the hottest summer day. Hypothermia can weaken even strong swimmers.

  Know your limits: drowning often occurs when a swimmer tires.

  Wear a life jacket when swimming anywhere without lifeguards or whenever you boat, jet ski, go tubing or do other water sports.

  Ensure children wear lifejackets. Inflatable toys and mattresses will not keep children safe. By law, children 12 and younger must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket or vest on all vessels 18 feet or smaller.

  Never leave children unsupervised in or near water, even for a minute. Drowning can happen swiftly and silently. Supervision requires complete attention, even if other adults are present.

  Always avoid alcohol when swimming or boating.