Heat Advisory

The National Weather Service issues a series of warnings and advisories for Madison this week, with the heat index at one point possibly hitting 110 degrees. To protect yourself and your family during hot summer weather, follow these safety tips:

·       Be aware of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke; stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. If you don’t have access to air conditioning at home, find places in your community with AC, such as a local cooling center.

·       Keep your home as cool as possible. For example, roughly 40% of unwanted heat buildup in our homes is through windows. Use awnings or curtains to keep the heat out, and check the weather stripping on doors and windows to keep the cool air in.

·       If you must be outside, find shade. Avoid strenuous activity, cover your head with a hat wide enough to protect your face and wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.

·       Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty. Make sure your family and pets are drinking enough water.

·       Never leave people or pets in a parked car. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.

·       Monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates on this situation. Be prepared to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air- conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Learn more at publichealthmdc.com/emergency.