Extreme heat safety
Heat stroke is an emergency: if someone has a body temperature above 103°F, hot red dry skin, a fast pulse or confusion, call 911 and cool them right away.
Ready.gov says extreme heat causes the most deaths each year of any weather hazard. Older adults, children and people with chronic illnesses are most at risk, and humidity makes it feel even hotter.
During: stay safe
- Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day.
- If you don't have air conditioning, go to a cooling center; dial 211 or call your local health department to find one. Fans alone don't prevent heat illness.
- Drink plenty of fluids, wear loose light-colored clothing, and avoid hard outdoor work in midday heat.
- Check on older family members and neighbors at least daily.
- Heat waves can cause power outages; have a plan for medicine that needs refrigeration.
Source: (Ready.gov: Extreme Heat)
After: recover
- Know heat exhaustion signs: heavy sweating, paleness, cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or fainting. Move somewhere cooler and sip water; get care if symptoms worsen or last over an hour.
- For suspected heat stroke, call 911, move the person to shade, and apply cold wet cloths or ice to the head, neck, armpits and groin.
- If you can't afford cooling costs, ask about the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Official sources
- NWS heat safetyHeat index and heat warnings · NWS
- Ready.gov: Extreme heatHeat illness signs and actions · Ready.gov
- Dial 2-1-1Find a cooling center near you · 211
Get help
- Power outagesOutage maps and generator safety
- Mental health & familySomeone to talk to, finding family
- Free food & waterMeals, water and ice nearby
- Safety firstGas, power lines, CO, floodwater
- After the storm: housing, mental health, money
- Insurance photo checklist
Live alerts for your area: pick your state · Current weather events
Common questions
What are the signs of heat stroke?
Ready.gov lists an extremely high body temperature (above 103°F), red, hot and dry skin with no sweat, a rapid strong pulse, and dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness. Call 911 right away.
Is a fan enough to stay safe in a heat wave?
No. Ready.gov says fans create a false sense of comfort and do not reduce body temperature or prevent heat-related illness. Go somewhere air-conditioned if you can.
Where can I find a cooling center?
Dial 211 or contact your local health department. Libraries and shopping malls can also be places to cool off.