High temperatures over the next week across San Diego County, particularly the deserts, are cause for extra precaution. Residents are advised to stay cool, avoid activities that may cause overheating, and pay extra attention to older adults, people with chronic medical conditions, young children and pets because they are more susceptible to heat illness.
The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning for county deserts starting Monday and continuing through Friday. Forecasters also issued an excessive heat watch for the mountains and valleys, with the hottest temperatures expected Tuesday through Thursday.
Hot temperatures can be particularly dangerous for seniors, and they are advised to stay home. Vista residents who do not have access to air conditioning at home can visit the Vista Library, a San Diego County Cool Zone, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday – Friday at 700 Eucalyptus Avenue beginning June 15. Additional sites will be posted on thee County’s Cool Zones website.
Please note that regardless of vaccination status, anyone who enters a cool zone must wear a facial covering inside. This is in adherence to guidance from the California Department of Public Health.
Health officials recommend people do the following to avoid overheating
If available, stay in an air-conditioned area during the hottest hours of the day
Wear light, loose-fitting clothing
Drink plenty of water (avoid alcohol and sugary drinks) and don’t wait until you are thirsty
Take cool showers
Never leave a child, elderly person, or pet unattended in a car
Keep pets cool in hot weather
Avoid unnecessary hard work or activities outside during the hottest part of the day
Avoid unnecessary sun exposure and wear a wide-brim hat if you need to be in the sun
Avoid using the oven to cook
An extremely high body temperature (103 or higher), dizziness, nausea, confusion, and headache are signs of heatstroke or exhaustion. If someone shows these signs, call 9-1-1 and begin cooling the individual by:
Moving them to a shaded area
Spraying with cool water and fanning them
Placing them in a cool shower if they are alert
Monitoring the body temperature and continue cooling efforts
Do not give the victim fluids to drink
For more information on extreme heat, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For more information on the Cool Zones program as well as tips to stay cool at home, visit www.coolzones.org.
