Temperatures to hit triple digits
Department of Public Health issues ‘heat alert’ for the Santa Clarita Valley between today and Sunday
A miniature heat wave expected this weekend has prompted county health officials to issue a “heat alert” for the SCV between today and Sunday.
The Los Angeles County health officer issued the heat alert in light of high temperatures forecast for half a dozen local areas in the county, including the Santa Clarita Valley.
Officials with the Department of Public Health reminded people in a news release issued Thursday morning that precautions should be taken, especially by individuals who participate in outdoor activities, older adults, caretakers of infants and children, and those sensitive to the heat.
“When temperatures are high, even a few hours of exertion may cause severe dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Others who are frail or have chronic health conditions may develop serious health problems leading to death if they are exposed to high temperatures over several days,” Dr. Jeffrey Gunzenhauser, the county’s interim health officer, was quoted as saying in the news release.
“Thus, it is critically important to never leave children, elderly people, or pets unattended in homes with no air conditioning and particularly in vehicles, even if the windows are ‘cracked’ or open, as temperatures inside can quickly rise to life-threatening levels.
“If you have an elderly or infirm neighbor without air conditioning, make sure that they get to a cooling center or other air conditioned space between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.”
“While it is very important that everyone take special care of themselves, it is equally important that we reach out to those who are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of extreme heat, including children, the elderly and their pets,” Gunzenhauser said.
“Extreme heat such as this is not just an inconvenience, it can be dangerous and even deadly, but we can protect ourselves, our families and our neighbors if we take steps to remain cool and hydrated.”
Schools, day camps, and non-schoolrelated sports organizations or athletes should take extra precautions during extreme heat. Practices and other outdoor activities should be scheduled for very early or very late in the day in order to limit the amount of time spent in the sun and heat.
Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms include heavy sweating, pale and clammy, moist skin, extreme weakness or fatigue, muscle cramps, headache, dizziness or confusion, nausea or vomiting, fast and shallow breathing, or fainting.
First Aid: Heat exhaustion should be treated immediately with rest in a cool area, sipping water or a sports drink, applying cool and wet cloths and elevating the feet 12 inches. If left untreated, victims may go into heat stroke. Seek medical attention if the person does not respond to the above, basic treatment.