Protecting Yourself Against a Summer Scorcher

COMMUNITY HEAT ADVISORY | Meteorologists are forecasting a heat wave to hit the Los Angeles basin this weekend, which makes this a timely refresher from the Department of Environmental Health and Safety on how to keep our loved ones well refreshed during hot weather.

Stay Cool

  • Wear lightweight, loose, light-colored clothing
  • Stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible. If your home doesn’t have A/C, spend time at the mall, public library, or movie theater.
  • Limit outdoor activities to the early morning or evening hours, and pace yourself with exertion. Rest often in the shade.
  • Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and stay hydrated. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat when going outside.
  • Never leave children or pets in parked cars, even if the windows are down.

Stay Hydrated

  • Drink plenty of water. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty, as that’s a sign your body is already dehydrated.
  • Avoid sugary and alcoholic drinks, as they cause you to lose body fluid.
  • Replace salt and minerals, which are lost with heavy sweating.
  • Keep your pets hydrated, too! Provide plenty of fresh water, and leave the water in a shaded area.

Know the Signs of Heat Illness

  • Electric fans don’t prevent heat-related illness when temperatures reach the high 90s. Take a cool shower or bath instead.
  • Monitor those at high risk of heat illness, including: infants and young children, adults ages 65+, and those who are overweight, overexert during work or exercise, and those who are physically ill.
  • Learn the warning signs of heat-related illness, and what to do.

For more information, visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website on extreme heat tips and FAQs.

If you are on campus during a heat wave, remember to remind children, students, faculty and staff, contractors, and guests to stay hydrated and rest in shaded areas as needed.

If you have an on-campus emergency, dial 911 followed by an immediate call to DPS at (310) 338-2893, so that DPS officers may clear the way for an LAFD response.

For air conditioning related issues, please contact the Facilities Management Help Desk at (310) 338-2761. You may also reach out to Environmental Health & Safety at (310) 338-1932 for questions or concerns.

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