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.
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