Main Navigation Header Living Here - Fairfax County Homepage Doing Business in Fairfax County Visiting Fairfax County Fairfax County Government Using this Site Contact us

Extreme Heat Preparedness

be informed || biological threat || chemical threat || earthquakes || explosions || extreme heat || fires || floods || hurricanes || pandemic flu || landslides and debris flow || nuclear threat || radiation threat || thunderstorms and lightning || tornadoes || tsunamis || wildfires || winter storms

Extreme Heat

extreme heatA heat wave is an extended period of extreme heat, and is often accompanied by high humidity. These conditions can be dangerous and even life-threatening for humans who don't take the proper precautions.

  • Prepare for a heat wave by checking to see if your home's cooling system is working properly.
  • Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the cool air inside.
  • Plan on being inside a cool building during the hottest time of the day.
  • Avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
  • Make sure you remain properly hydrated by drinking plenty of water and limiting intake of alcoholic beverages.
  • Eat light, well-balanced meals.
  • Dress in light, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle.
  • Visit NOAA Watch for more weather-related information.

Stay informed about the types of medical conditions that can result from heat waves, and the proper First Aid measures that should be taken.