This time of year we expect the hot days are here to stay for a while. Arkansas weather experts are currently predicting high temps in the range of 100’s. These hot days create the need for extra caution when working and playing outside. Here are some reminders on how you can remain safe and comfortable.
General Recommendations
- Stay cool and if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall, library, recreational facilities or heat-relief shelters.
- Electric fans should be used with caution. Use only if they bring in cool air from outside. Do not use if they only circulate hot air. Instead take cool showers or baths.
- When outdoors, stay in the shade whenever possible (natural or artificial structures).
- When in the sun, cover up. Wear a wide brimmed hat, UV protective sunglasses, and loose-fitting long shirts and pants.
- Stay well hydrated. Plain water is the liquid of choice, diluted fruit juice is okay. Drink less caffeinated and alcoholic beverages on hot days.
- Check regularly on children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities or with chronic illnesses; be sure they are well hydrated.
- Be aware of signs and symptoms of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Follow first aid procedures promptly.
- Apply sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher), 20-30 minutes before going outside to ensure absorption.
- When using DEET insect repellent, apply 20-30 minutes after sunscreen has been applied.
- Sunscreens/insect repellents are not recommended for infants under six months of age. Keep babies under one year of age out of direct sunlight.
- NEVER leave anyone (including pets) in a closed, parked vehicle.
During a Heat Alert
- Keep cool
- Stay hydrated
- Check on your elderly and infirmed neighbors
Follow the General Guidelines AND
- Go outdoors only in the coolest part of the day, and if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall, library, recreational facilities or other cool location. Limit exercise outdoors.
- Especially limit time outdoors:
- During the hottest part of the day, and
- When UV radiation is most intense, between 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Drink lots of liquids. Plain water is the liquid of choice, diluted fruit juice is okay. Drink less caffeinated and alcoholic beverages on hot days.
- Check regularly on children, elderly, persons with disabilities and individuals with chronic illnesses; be sure they are well hydrated (plain water is the liquid of choice). Drink less caffeinated and alcoholic beverages on hot days.
During an Extreme Heat Alert
- Keep cool
- Stay hydrated
- Check on your neighbour/call or visit
Follow Heat Alert Guidelines AND
- VISIT OR CALL your neighbors, especially the elderly, persons with disabilities, and individuals with chronic illnesses or on medications.
- During extreme temperature conditions, stay in a cool place and if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall, library, recreational facilities or heat-relief shelters.
- Do not do strenuous activity outdoors.
Resist Outside Burning During High Temps
During high temperature periods, humidity is often removed very quickly from vegetation. Any burning of materials could escape control, even when no burning ban is in place. Always have a plan before any outdoor burning to ensure burning is done safely, without injury and unintended damage to land and property.
- Do not burn any item but natural tree and grass debris. (Building materials, rubber, plastics, metals, and more are illegal and have huge fines)
- Only burn in manageable piles with sufficient fire lines and extinguishing capabilities
- Only burn when humidity is sufficient. Little or no humidity will allow your pile to burn easily, but can allow surrounding vegetation to support easy fire spread
- Even if we get some rain (popup showers) make sure the fire risk remains low enough to support a burn. A little rain yesterday might not be sufficient for an outdoor fire today. That moisture can evaporate quickly with several days of high temps.
- Never burn during a Burn Ban. You will be responsible for the fines incurred for burning during a prohibited burning period (not cheap)
Always check these links for fire preparedness, warnings and related weather conditions before you burn:
Link- WPFD Preparedness
Link- Arkansas Fire Danger Map
Link- Arkansas Burn Ban Map