June 23, 2025
Media Contact: Erin Perkins, erin.perkins@vdh.virginia.gov
Local Health Officials Offer Tips to Keep Healthy and Cool as Temperatures Climb
Extreme Heat Expected to Impact Fredericksburg region through Wednesday June 25
FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – As extreme heat moves into the Fredericksburg area, heat-related illnesses are a real concern. Rappahannock Area Health District offers guidance to stay healthy and cool this summer.
As temperatures outside rise, it’s important to stay hydrated and stay cool. Last summer, Virginia had more than 3,200 heat-related illness visits to emergency departments (EDs) and urgent cares statewide and 144 visits for Planning District -16. Additionally, Virginia EMS clinicians responded to more than 3,600 heat-related illness 911 calls during the heat season (May to September). According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat was the leading cause of weather-related deaths in 2024.
“Take time to ensure you are hydrated, reduce your exposure to heat as much as possible, and check in on friends and family to ensure they are doing the same,” says Rappahannock Area Health District Director Olugbenga Obasanjo, M.D.
Heat stroke and heat exhaustion occur when your body is unable to cool itself. Humidity plays a big factor in your body’s ability to release heat. The higher the humidity, the slower your sweat evaporates. Additionally, things like age, weight, heart disease, poor circulation, sunburn, and alcohol and prescription drug use can affect how fast your body can cool itself.
You can beat the heat with these tips:
- Stay Hydrated – Drink water and lots of it. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
- Stay Cool – The easiest way to keep cool is to stay inside in the air conditioning. Don’t have AC? Visit 211 to find a cooling center near you.
- Limit Physical Activity – Schedule your outdoor activities for the coolest times of the day – early morning or evening. Take frequent breaks in the shade.
- Dress Appropriately – Loose, lightweight clothing is the best way to dress for the heat. Wear sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher), glasses, and a sun hat for protection. Reapply sunscreen often.
- Stay Informed – Before heading outside check out the Heat Risk Forecast or the CDC Heat and Health Tracker. Know the difference between a heat watch and a heat warning.
- Do not leave children or pets in cars. Temperatures inside the car can rise almost 20 degrees within the first 10 minutes, even with the windows cracked. Make sure pets have plenty of water and shade.
- Check on Others – Recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses and knowing what to do, might save the life of a loved one. Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 911 immediately if an individual:
- Loses consciousness
- Has a fast, strong pulse
- Has hot, red skin
- And/or temperatures of 103° F
Keep these tips in mind for a safe, cool summer. Rappahannock Area Health District can be a resource for summer safety.
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