June 19, 2008

PRECAUTIONS URGED DURING HOT WEATHER 

With temperatures approaching 100 degrees and higher, Pasadena Fire Department, Pasadena Public Health Department and Pasadena Water and Power remind everyone to take care of themselves, their children and their pets.

Prolonged exposure to sun may cause heat stroke, exhaustion, heat cramps and dehydration. Insufficient water or salt intake may lead to a deficiency in the production of sweat, which may cause heat exhaustion. Symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, headaches, pale and clammy skin, rapid and weak pulse, fast and shallow breathing, muscle cramps and intense thirst. Anyone with these symptoms should be removed to a cooler, shaded location and given fluids such as water or sports drinks.
Anyone experiencing diminished judgment, disorientation, pale and clammy skin, rapid and weak pulse and/or fast and shallow breathing should receive immediate attention.
There are several ways to manage the heat:

• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.

• Drink fluids often; don’t wait until you are thirsty.

• Offer assistance to shut-ins in your neighborhood and check on them frequently during hot weather.

• During peak heat hours, stay in an air-conditioned area. If you don’t have access to air conditioning in your home, visit public facilities such as shopping malls, community centers and libraries to stay cool or find a list of cooling stations at www.ladcss.org.

• Avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun. Wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim, when out in the sunlight.

• Use the buddy system: Check in regularly with those you know who are senior citizens, ill or with compromised immune systems to make sure they are staying cool and drinking fluids.

• Never leave children, seniors or pets unattended in closed cars or other vehicles.

While Pasadena has adequate power resources, residents and others are encouraged to set air conditioner thermostats at 78 degrees or higher; and avoid using unnecessary lighting, major electrical appliances and pool pumps during the peak usage period from 3 to 7 p.m. Visit www.cityofpasadena.net/waterandpower for more energy conservation tips.
Pasadena Fire Department has also issued a red flag warning, indicating a higher potential for fires due to single digit humidity over the next few days.

For more information, call Pasadena Fire Department at (626) 744-4675, Pasadena Public Health Department at (626) 744-6005 or Pasadena Water and Power at
(626) 744-6970.