Tips for Staying Safe During Extreme Heat

During hot weather periods in San Diego County, it's important to plan ahead and take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. 

Monitor weather conditions on the National Weather Service site or your favorite weather site, and continue reading for tips and resources.

Tips to Avoid Heat-Related Illnesses

• Stay in an air-conditioned area during the hottest hours of the day
  • Keep students and staff indoors during the afternoon hours 
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing
  • If operating summer programs for youth, notify students and families to avoid heavy jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, and other heavy or tight-fitting clothing  
• Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks; don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink
  • Encourage summer program staff and youth to bring water to school and/or work and make sure your site has plenty of water on hand to distribute
• Avoid unnecessary hard work or activities outside during the hottest part of the day
• Avoid outdoor student physical activity in the afternoon hours
• Avoid unnecessary sun exposure and wear a wide-brim hat if you or your staff need to be in the sun
• Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Resources for the Community

• The County of San Diego has a Cool Zone program where those in need of relief from the heat can access air conditioned spaces. Find a Cool Zone near you. 
• This CDC webpage on heat-related illness has warning signs and symptoms, as well as what to do and when to get medical help.
• The National Weather Service has heat safety tips and resources that can be shared with parents and staff.

Resources for School Operations

• The California Department of Public Health developed guidance for schools on sports and strenuous activities during extreme heat. 
• The California Interscholastic Federation has an extreme heat and air quality policy based on state guidance. 
• San Diego Unified School District has an extensive webpage on hot weather operations with an overview of potential impacts and modifications.
• SDCOE also created a wildfire resource guide with tools intended to assist local school communities in preparing for wildfires, as well as the impacts resulting from poor air quality.