Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is reminding residents to take precautions during this season. This weekend marks the official start of summer, which brings higher temperatures and ample sunshine.
“Temperatures are expected to be high this weekend so be sure to take precautions to protect yourselves, your families and your pets,” said Jeffrey Gunzenhauser, MD, MPH, Interim Health Officer, Los Angeles County. “Stay cool and hydrated as the temperatures increase, and take the time to check-in with those individuals who are most susceptible for heat-related illnesses.”
With elevated temperatures, Public Health urges safety measures be taken specifically for those at highest risk of heat-related illness including older adults, infants and children, individuals who participate in outdoor activities and those sensitive to the heat.
Stay Cool and Hydrated:
* Never leave children, elderly people, or pets unattended in homes with no air conditioning or in vehicles, regardless of air conditioning.
* Stay hydrated by drinking water often and avoiding sweetened drinks, caffeine and alcohol.
* Pay attention to signs of dehydration and other heat-related illnesses.
* In higher temperatures, avoid unnecessary exertion when outdoors or in a non-air conditioned building.
* To protect yourself against the sun’s UV rays, wear UV-blocking sunglasses, a wide brimmed hat, and loose, light-colored clothing.
* Avoid sunburn and reduce your risk of skin cancer by using sunscreen that is SPF 15 or higher every day. Thoroughly reapply sunscreen often, especially after
water activities.
* During peak heat hours stay in an air-conditioned area. If you do not have access to air conditioning in your home, visit a local cooling center.
For a map the nearest cooling centers, go to http://bit.ly/BeatTheHeat2015 or call LA County Information line at 2-1-1 from any phone within the County.
Warmer months may also bring greater risk of mosquito-borne diseases. You can reduce your risk of mosquito-borne disease by eliminating breeding sources, like standing water, around homes and taking other precautions such as using insect repellent.
The Department of Public Health is committed to protecting and improving the health of the nearly 10 million residents of Los Angeles County. Through a variety of programs, community partnerships and services, Public Health oversees environmental health, disease control, and community and family health. Public Health comprises nearly 4,000 employees and has an annual budget exceeding $900 million. To learn more about Public Health and the work we do, please visit http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov.
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1 Comment
On sunscreen also make sure it has “broad spectrum” on the label. The FDA only allows sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays to be labeled this way (our natural mineral sunscreen is an example). It’s important as both types of rays cause skin damage.