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"Prepare. Respond. Recover. It's time to get Ready LA" - Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa
Anyone who’s spent any time in Los Angeles knows the feeling. You walk outside on a particular y hot summer day and the air hits you like a sizzling sauna. The blazing sun grills you like a cheap hot dog and there seems to be no escape. Inside, it can be just as bad if you don’t have air conditioning or strong ans blowing a force of cool air your way For most of us, it’s unpleasant. For others, it can be deadly So don’t sweat it, learn the acts that can make a difference.
What's hot, what's not
kids enjoying the sun
  • Approximately 400 people die in the U.S. each year from exposure to weather-related heat and many more die from health conditions made worse by the heat.
  • Those at greatest risk for heat-related illness include infants and small children, the elderly people who are overweight and those on certain medications.
  • During hot weather, people should drink more liquid than their thirst indicates, up to four 16-ounce glasses per hour if exercising in the heat.
  • The intake of alcoholic beverages can make you more susceptible to heat-related illnesses in unusually hot weather
  • City dwellers may be at greater risk than those in rural areas during heat waves because asphalt and concrete store heat longer and gradually release it at night.

Heat stroke signs
person exposed to sun
Everyone should be aware of the indicators for deadly heat stroke. Be sure to seek help immediately if any of these following symptoms occur:

  • Fainting, which is often one of the first signs
  • Body temperature above 104º F
  • Confusion, grumpiness, staggering, odd behavior
  • Dry, flushed skin
  • Strong, rapid pulse or slow, weak pulse
  • Lack of sweat despite the heat

Steps to beat heat
Woman at the beacj
Break out the ice… rev up the wind machine… turn on the cold shower! It sounds like a recipe for a party, but actually cold drinks, fans, showers and other similar measures do help when the weather turns excessively hot. Here are a few things you can do to avoid falling victim to the heat.

  • Stay indoors as much as possible and limit your exposure to the sun.
  • Draw your shades to keep out the sun, and use fans or air conditioning, if possible.
  • Drink plenty of water and limit your intake of alcoholic beverages.
  • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing.
  • Protect your face and head with a wide-brimmed hat if going outdoors.
  • Avoid strenuous outdoor work during the warmest part of the day
  • Never leave children or pets in a closed vehicle.



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