Montco declares Code Red Emergency

NORRISTOWN » The Montgomery County Commissioners, on the advice of the Montgomery County Department of Public Safety, have declared a “Code Red” Hot Weather Emergency for Montgomery County based on a review of forecasts from the National Weather Service.

Code Red Hot Weather Health Warnings are issued in anticipation of an oppressively hot air mass with a heat index of 100ºF or greater. Heat index values will be at or above 100ºF between noon and 6 p.m. Such conditions can be deadly, and residents should take precautions to prevent heatrelated stress and illness.

Those especially at risk are very young children, elderly adults, and people with chronic medical conditions, and who take certain medications. Friends, relatives, or neighbors should check on people who may be at risk. Seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms of heatrelated illness — including muscle cramps, headache, nausea, or vomiting.

Residents of Montgomery County who need emergency shelter during a “Code Red” can call the Your Way Home Call Center at 2-1-1 or text their zip code to 898-211.

Helpful tips

• Drink plenty of nonalcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages. • Wear lightweight, light-colored, loosefitting clothing. • If at all possible, try to get outdoor work completed in the morning to avoid the warmest part of the day. • Keep windows and interior doors open when running a fan at home. • Keep cool by seeking an air-conditioned building, such as a mall, library, or senior center if available. If not, seek rest in the shade.

For general hot weather information, visit the Montgomery County Office of Public Health Extreme Weather webpage: https:// www.montcopa.org/573/Extreme-Weather—Heat.