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During the hot summer months it’s important to take necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses. Illness can stem from heat exhaustion or heat stroke, as well as foodborne illnesses because of inappropriate handling of food.

Heat-related illness and deaths are preventable if you take the appropriate steps. The elderly, the very young, and those with mental illness and chronic diseases are at highest risk. However, even young and healthy individuals can succumb to heat if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather.

The following information and links provide information on how you can protect yourself during hot weather: These hot weather tips are not a substitute for medical care but may help you recognize and respond promptly to warning signs of trouble. Your best defense against heat-related illness is prevention.

TOP TEN TIPS FOR STAYING COOL:

1. Drink plenty of non-carbonated liquids like water or electrolyte-enriched liquids to replace your fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty.
2. Avoid liquids that have alcohol, caffeine or lots of sugar because they will speed up fluid loss.
3. Stay in air-conditioned areas such as malls, libraries, movie theatres and community centers. Even a few hours can cool your body’s temperature.
4. If you feel very hot, cool off by taking a cool bath or shower. Opening a window or using a fan may not prevent heat-related illnesses.
5. Do not cool children in alcohol baths. Cool, plain water baths or moist towels work best.
6. Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, such as cotton, so sweat can evaporate.
7. NEVER leave anyone or pets in closed, parked cars during hot weather.
8. Do not bundle babies in blankets or heavy clothing. Infants do not tolerate heat well because their sweat glands are not fully developed.
9. Limit physical activity to morning and evening hours. Avoid physical activity or exercise between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. typically the hottest part of the day. Rest often in shady areas.
10. Wear a wide-brimmed, vented hat or use an umbrella because your head absorbs heat easily.
• Heat Illness Fact Sheet
  Heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable. Staying cool and making simple changes in your fluid intake, activities, and clothing during hot weather can help you remain safe and healthy.
  
  If you have any non-urgent questions about Heat-Related Illness, please contact the Public Health Information Line at 408.885.3980. Public Health Department staff members are available to answer your questions Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Web site for additional information.

• American Red Cross Health and Safety Tips for Heat-Related Illness
  
  
• Cooling Center Locations in Santa Clara County -A cooling center is a facility, such as a senior center or community center, where people may go to enjoy air-conditioned comfort during a heat emergency. (Locations will be posted during extreme heat) Or call 2-1-1
  
  
• Heat Wave Brochure


FOOD SAFETY TIPS
Although food safety is important any time of the year, during the hot weather months, it's important to follow food safety guidelines to prevent harmful bacteria from multiplying and causing foodborne illness. Whether you are outdoors barbecuing or camping, or you are operating a food establishment that is experiencing power outages or rolling blackouts, there are a few simple precautions you can take.

• Barbecue and food safety In hot weather (above 90 °F), food should never sit out for more than 1 hour.
  
  
• Food safety when traveling, camping, boating

When Electricity Fails in Food Establishments Power outages or rolling blackouts during hot weather can last from several minutes or hours to several days. Food establishment operators MUST be prepared to safeguard foods when outages occur.