Health Commissioner Issues Heat Safety Tips

With temperatures expected to reach the 90s during the next few days Health Commissioner Oxiris Barbot is reminding residents to take precautions in the heat. 

"Heat-related hospitalizations and deaths are highly preventable," Barbot said in a news release. "During hot days, it’s important to stay cool, stay hydrated, and say in touch with your neighbors, especially seniors and the medically frail who live alone or without air conditioning."

According to the Baltimore Heatlh Department, 13 people died last year from heat related illness, and the city declared 17 Code Red Heat Alert days declared in 2012.

The Health Department Issued the following tips:

• Spend time in air conditioned buildings and avoid direct exposure to the sun.
• Drink more fluids; don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water.
• Avoid physical activity.
• Dress in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
• Avoid alcohol or liquids containing large amounts of sugar because these can dehydrate you.
• During extreme heat events, identify and reach out to at-risk friends, family and neighbors, and help them deal with the heat
• Call 311 to notify 311 Baltimore of any at-risk individuals who may need additional assistance.