San Andreas, CA…Calaveras County Public Health Services has issued a heat advisory for the County. We urge the public to act now to prevent heat-related illness. Temperatures of 100 degrees or more are expected for the remainder of the week. Dr. Kelaita, County Health Officer, stated, “Taking action now can prevent the possibility of heat-related illness. Some health conditions such as obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, poor circulation, sunburn and drug/alcohol use can make it harder for the body to say cool in hot weather.”

During this heat wave, be sure to:
Drink plenty of water
Take enough water for yourself and those traveling with you when you leave home
Avoid drinks with caffeine (tea, coffee, and soft drinks)
Avoid alcoholic beverages
Provide plenty of water for pets
Stay cool, stay indoors
Stay in an air conditioned area if possible
If you do not have air conditioning, go to a place that is air conditioned
Take a cool shower or bath
Wear light clothing and sunscreen when outdoors
Choose lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing
Wear a wide-brimmed hat
Use sunscreen when outside (SPF 15 or higher) and reapply every two hours when in the sun
Plan outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day
Avoid being out during the hottest part of the day
Rest often in a shady area
Never leave children or pets in a parked car
Pace yourself
Take frequent, regularly scheduled breaks
If you don’t feel well (for example: heart pounds, out of breath, lightheaded, confused, weak or faint) stop your activity and rest in a cool or shady area
Stay in touch with your family, friends, and neighbors daily
For those with health conditions and the elderly, check in more often
Have others check on you
Heat related illness can be prevented by taking these steps, especially during a heat wave. “Don’t overestimate what you can do during a heat wave; assume it should be less than your normal level of activity,” stated Dr. Kelaita.

The warning signs of heat illness include heavy sweating, cramps, headache, nausea or vomiting, tiredness, weakness, dizziness and fainting. For more information about prevention and signs of heat-related illness, visit www.calaveraspublichealth.com or call Public Health at 209-754-6460.