Deschutes County Extreme Heat Precautions

Temperatures in Central Oregon are expected to rise and remain high over the next week. Extremely high or unusually hot temperatures can affect your health. The most vulnerable individuals are those who work or exercise outdoors, adults over 65, infants and children under 4, people without housing, and people with a chronic medical condition.

Take the necessary precautions to prevent serious health effects such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Stay cool

• During heat alert days, vulnerable individuals should consider maximizing their time in air-conditioned homes or buildings during the hottest time of day or visit public, air-conditioned places such as libraries, community centers, senior centers, restaurants, and retailers for relief from the heat.
• In homes without air-conditioners, open windows at night when temperatures are cooler. Keep windows and blinds shut during the day.
• Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device.
• Limit outdoor activity, especially midday when it is the hottest part of the day, and avoid direct sunlight.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature.
• Check on at-risk friends, family, and neighbors at least twice a day.

Stay hydrated

• Drink more water than usual, and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
• Drink two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside.
• Avoid alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar.
• Make sure your family, friends, and neighbors are drinking enough water.

Stay informed

• Check your local news for extreme heat warnings and safety tips.
• Visit www.deschutes.org/heat to find local information and tips for preventing heat sickness.
• Keep your friends, family, and neighbors aware of weather and heat safety information.

Additionally, Deschutes County Health Services encourages all residents to learn the signs and first aid response for heat-related illness. Warning signs and symptoms vary but may include:

Heat Exhaustion

Symptoms

• Heavy sweating
• Weakness
• Skin cold, pale, and clammy
• Weak pulse
• Fainting and vomiting
   

What You Should Do

• Move to a cooler location.
• Lie down and loosen your clothing.
• Apply cool, wet cloths to as much of your body as possible.
• Sip water.
• If you have vomited and it continues, seek medical attention immediately.

Heat Stroke

Symptoms

• High body temperature above 103°F
• Hot, red, dry or moist skin
• Rapid and strong pulse
• Possible unconsciousness
   

What You Should Do

• Call 911 immediately — this is a medical emergency.
• Move the person to a cooler environment.
• Reduce the person's body temperature with cool cloths or even a bath.
• Do NOT give fluids.
   

For more information on extreme heat, visit: www.deschutes.org/heat