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's Cool Zone program, including the County’s 33 branch libraries, community centers and other locations, offers 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 resource includes a link to CalHeatScore, which can be used to determine an appropriate response to heat in your ZIP code.
• The California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) has an extreme heat and air quality policy based on state guidance. CIF also has details on 2018 legislation requiring all California coaches to be trained in heat illness prevention, and information on developing and implementing an Emergency Action Plan for emergency response at after-school practices and events.
• 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.