SUMMER SAFETY TIPS FROM SOUTH HOLLAND PUBLIC SAFETY SUPPORT SERVICES

Summer is a fun and enjoyable season with lots of opportunities for gatherings, socializing, and outdoor activities. In the midst of these festivities, however, it’s important to be aware of the possibility of things like extreme heat and severe weather. South Holland’s Public Safety Support Services (also known as PS3) have provided the following tips to help keep you and your family safe during these summer months.

1. Never leave pets or people in a car. It is never a good idea to leave a person, child, or animal in a car, but especiall y in the warm weather months. Even on 80-d egree days, vehicle interiors can reach over 100 degrees. Infants and children are especiall y in danger of getting heat stroke or dying.

2. Drink water. It is also very important to keep yourself and your pets hydrated d uring warm days. The more active you are, the more important it is for you to drink e xtra water. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink your H2O; make it a regular ha bit throughout the day.

3. Find air conditioning. If your home does not have air conditioning, try to f ind some type of public place or cooling shelter. A few hours spent in the air c onditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat. K eep in mind that while electric fans may provide some comfort, when the te mperature is in the high 90s they will not prevent heat-related illness.

4. Keep your house cool. You can keep your house cooler by insulating it and c overing your windows with drapes or shades. Use window reflectors such as alumin um foil-covered cardboard to reflect heat back outside.

5. Dress appropriately and wear sunscreen. Sunburn affects your body’s ability to c ool down and can make you dehydrated. If you must go outdoors, protect yourself f rom the sun by wearing loose, lightweight, light-colored clothes. A wid e-brimmed hat and sunglasses are recommended as well.

6. Avoid strenuous activities. High heat and outdoor activities don’t always mix well. If possible, tr y to limit your outdoor activity to when it’s coolest. If you ha ve to work outside, try to take frequent breaks in shady areas.

7. Check on your family and friends . Older adults, children and people with chronic medical c onditions are at high risk of heat-related injury and death. Check in on the m often during the hottest days.

8. Eat light. Hot, heavy meals add heat to your body. It’s best to consume light, f resh foods to keep you cool and provide proper nutrients.

Severe Weather Tips

Severe weather can happen at any time of the year. Preparing for floods, tornadoes and severe thunderstorms before they strike will help you stay safe throughout the year.

Know the hazards. Be aware of the hazards that exist where you live.

Know when to expect dangerous weather. Monitor forecasts and information from your local National Weather Service, and always have more than one way to receive emergency alerts and notifications. Sign up for South Holland’s Smart911 emergency notification system at southholland.org.

Be alert and ready. Be aware of issued watches, warnings and advisories.

Have a plan to stay safe. Make sure that each member of your family knows what protective actions to take during each level of an emergency.