Tag: heat-related illness

Virginia Department of Health Offers Safety Tips to Beat the Heat

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  – July 25, 2025
Media Contact: Brookie Crawford, brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov

Virginia Department of Health Offers Safety Tips to Beat the Heat
Extreme Temperatures Return to Virginia

RICHMOND, Va. – As Virginia gets blasted with another heat wave over the next few days, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) reminds everyone to take steps to avoid heat-related illness.

During these hot summer months, heat-related illnesses are a real concern. So far this year (May 1 to July 24), there were 2,883 heat-related illness visits to emergency departments (ED) and urgent cares in Virginia. June 2025 recorded more visits than any previous month since tracking began in 2015, spiking on June 24 with 249 ED and urgent care visits in a single day.

“Extreme heat can make you very sick,” said State Health Commissioner Karen Shelton, MD. “We saw significant increases in emergency visits for heat-related illnesses in late June when temperatures and humidity surged. With the forecast calling for similar weather over the next few days, we urge everyone to be careful and take precautions. If your plan to beat the heat includes pool or beach time, please keep a close eye on children. We have seen a concerning rise in child drowning deaths this year.”

Heat stroke and heat exhaustion occur when your body is unable to cool itself. Your body sweats to cool itself. But when you sweat, you lose water and electrolytes. You must replace them to continue regulating your body temperature and keep it functioning properly. Age, weight, heart disease, poor circulation, alcohol, sunburn, and prescription drugs can also play a factor in how quickly your body can cool itself.

You can help your body stay cool with these tips:

  • Drink water and plenty of it. Hydration is important. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. You need to replace the water you lose sweating.
  • Stay inside. Being indoors offers air conditioning and a break from the heat. Don’t have AC? Visit 211 to find a cooling center near you. Before heading outside, check out the HeatRisk Forecast or the CDC Heat and Health Tracker. Know the difference between heat watch and heat warning.
  • Limit physical activity to early morning or evening. Schedule your outdoor activities for the coolest times of the day. Take frequent breaks in the shade. Outdoor workers can prevent heat illness with acclimatization. To acclimatize, workers gradually increase their exposure time in hot environmental conditions over a seven- to 14-day period.
  • Wear sunscreen. Protect your body from the sun by wearing sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher). Reapply every two hours. Wear loose lightweight clothing, sunglasses, and a sun hat for protection.
  • Never 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. Learn to recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses and know what to do. It could save a life. If someone has hot, red skin, a rapid, strong pulse, a body temperature of 103°F or higher, or loses consciousness, call 911 immediately. Heat stroke is a medical emergency.

In 2024, extreme heat was the leading cause of weather-related deaths. To date, Virginia has had one heat-related fatality this year.

Keep these tips in mind for a cool and healthy summer. Remember that your local health department can be a resource for summer safety.

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VDH in the News, June 27, 2025

Posted on by brianlittle

VDH in the News – June 27, 2025

Here are some of the items in today’s news scan. Stories include drowning, water safety, heat-related illness, measles, restaurant inspection, food safety, COVID, PFAS, fluoride, harmful algal bloom, and more. Some of the articles may contain specific references to VDH, while others describe issues that may be of interest or concern to VDH. To view a complete article, click the underlined link. If you have any questions or comments, let me know.

 

Six children under age of 5 drowned in Virginia pools in just one month: VDH
WRIC ABC 8
June 26, 2025
By Clare Gehlich

Virginia has seen a noticeable rise in drownings in children under 5 years old in swimming pools, with six children dying since Memorial Day, according to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). … “We join with the families and communities grieving the loss of these young lives,” said State Health Commissioner Karen Shelton, MD. “These numbers are heartbreaking. Swimming and playing in pools can be fun, particularly on blistering hot days, but pools can also be dangerous. Families should take caution in and around pools. Children in pools should be supervised at all times, and pools should be gated and secured to prevent access when supervision is not available. Please consider enrolling children in swimming lessons. We want to do everything we can to prevent any more lives lost.”

 

Note: There were additional items on this topic in today’s news.
Sheriff’s office investigating drowning at Swift Run Campground

6 children under 5 drown in Virginia pools since Memorial Day, highest number in years

Virginia faces alarming rise in drowning fatalities among children under five

 

Record heat fuels surge in heat-related illnesses across Virginia
WRIC ABC 8
June 26, 2025
By Sahara Sriraman

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is reporting an alarming rise in heat-related emergency room visits as scorching temperatures grip the Commonwealth, and experts warn the worst may be yet to come. … “Before you get thirsty, you need to drink a lot of water,” said Meredith Davis, an epidemiologist with VDH. “Try not to do the caffeinated beverages so much and really be checking on each other — the people you work with, especially if you work outdoors.”

 

Note: There was an additional item on this topic in today’s news.
VDH: Heat-related illnesses surge across Virginia

Virginia reports record heat-related illnesses as temperatures soar across the Commonwealth

Park expert shares tips on avoiding heat illnesses while outside on a hike

 

Another possible measles exposure investigated in Northern Virginia
WTOP
June 26, 2025
By Will Vitka

Another potential measles exposure is being investigated in Northern Virginia after someone with a confirmed case of the virus traveled through Dulles International Airport last week. According to the Virginia Department of Health, the person went through Dulles’ Concourse A and the baggage area between 7:45 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. on June 19. … “If you were at these locations at the same time as this case, it’s important to make sure that you’re protected against measles, and so that would mean verifying your vaccination history, or that you have other proof of measles immunity,” Meredith Robinson, Vaccine Preventable Disease Coordinator at the Virginia Department of Health told WTOP’s Linh Bui.

 

Note: There were additional items on this topic in today’s news.
Alexandria Health Department warns of another potential measles exposure in Northern Virginia

VDH investigates another measles exposure in Northern Virginia

Latest VA Measles Exposure Confirmed At Dulles Airport

Health department investigates another measles exposure in Northern Virginia

Virginia health officials warn of potential measles exposure at Washington Dulles Airport

Another potential measles exposure at Dulles

Dulles Airport Measles Case Prompts Public Health Warning In Virginia

Heatwave alert as Virginia, other states, experience extreme temperatures

Measles cases confirmed in Washington, Virginia

 

Virginia seeing record-breaking number of heat-related illness ER visits
WAVY 10
June 26, 2025

Heat-related illnesses are sprouting up across the Commonwealth, causing an alarming amount of people to seek medical attention as stifling temperatures persists. In fact, within the last decade, these types of visits have occurred more than any other June. That’s according to the Virginia Department of Health, which has been tracking these visits since 2015. … 10 On Your Side spoke with Dr. Nancy Welch, Chesapeake Health Department health director, who said there has been about a 60% increase in heat-related visits to the emergency room statewide. “What people need to understand is you don’t want to wait until you experience symptoms,” she said. “There are preventive things you can do, and it’s not just drinking water. The key is having adequate fluids, along with electrolytes. It balances and keeps that flow of the liquid in the tissue and in the blood system — and I say fluids, not just water. And that’s why they need the electrolytes plus the water.

 

Why it’s more difficult to open a restaurant in Richmond than the counties
Richmond Times Dispatch
June 26, 2025
By Meredith Lindemon

Time was running out. The money was pretty much gone. Carlos Ordaz-Nuñez was watching his dream go up in smoke because of a plate glass window. … When asked specifically about communications, Cindy McKelvy, senior environmental health manager for Richmond and Henrico Health Districts, said, “I can’t really speak to how operators interact with city agencies because we are separate from the city. We do, as the Health Department, have good working relationships with our city partners and we can communicate pretty quickly and easily between us and them if we have an issue, or if someone needs help. Then we can point them in the direction of where they need to go as far as the city agencies that need to be involved.”

 

VDH: How to cook and store food properly to avoid getting sick
WHSV 3
June 26, 2025
By Olivia Whitehouse

With students on summer break and the Fourth of July coming up, more families will be holding cookouts. … Kelsey Holloman, foodborne disease epidemiology program manager with the Virginia Department of Health, said that while it is not always possible to determine if food is contaminated, it is essential to use a food thermometer. Holloman said poultry products should be cooked to 165 degrees, while egg products and ground meat should be cooked to 160 degrees. “Fish, pork, beef and other red meat should be cooked to 145 degrees,” Holloman said.

 

COVID variant shown to give ‘severe sore throat’; local experts weigh in
WHSV 3
June 26, 2025
By Amir Massenburg

There’s a new COVID variant being shown to give a severe sore throat. … The Virginia Department of Health says there haven’t been any cases of it reported here in the Commonwealth. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not here. … “I think at this point, there’s so many variants and they’re getting so muddled that it’s getting harder and harder to tell. But I do know that it is affecting other countries a little bit harder right now. It’s kind of started there and it looks like it’s moving this way,” said Lisa Sollot, Respiratory Disease Program Coordinator for the Division of Surveillance and Investigation with the Virginia Department of Health.

 

‘Forever chemicals’ mar pristine reputation of Virginia’s Chickahominy River
Bay Journal
June 26, 2025
By Whitney Pipkin

The Chickahominy River in Virginia is known for its physical beauty, with bald cypress trees and lily pads decorating the water that meanders through largely undeveloped acres of forests and wetlands. But the river’s appearance tells only part of the story. In May, the Virginia Department of Health issued its first fish consumption advisory for the presence of harmful chemicals in the Chickahominy River, which is a James River tributary, and the White Oak Swamp where its waters originate.

 

Luray discontinues additional fluoride in drinking water system
Rocktown Now
June 26, 2025
By Jacquelynn Dobrin

Luray town staff and town council have elected to discontinue the addition of fluoride to its drinking water. In a release, town officials said they will stop adding fluoride in early September due to the Virginia Department of Health requirement of a 90-day notice.

Note: There were additional items on this topic in today’s news.
Luray will stop adding fluoride to drinking water

 

Fairfax County Park Authority Updates Residents on Burke Lake
Northern Virginia Magazine
June 26, 2025
By Debbie Williams

Fairfax County Park Authority has issued an update on the status of Burke Lake. … The Virginia Department of Health says most algae are not harmful. However, the agency cautions that “some types of algae in Virginia can be dangerous. Algae species in fresh and salt water may multiply rapidly when environmental conditions are favorable for their development. The great number of algal cells in the water results in what is called an algal bloom.”

 

Local Health Officials Offer Tips to Keep Healthy and Cool as Temperatures Climb

June 23, 2025
Media Contact: Emely Melendez, emely.melendez1@vdh.virginia.gov

Local Health Officials Offer Tips to Keep Healthy and Cool as Temperatures Climb
Extreme Heat Expected to Impact Greater Prince William Week of June 23, 2025

PRINCE WILLIAM, Va. – As extreme heat moves into the area, heat-related illnesses are a real concern. The Prince William Health District (PWHD) 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 114 visits for Prince William County (PWC), Manassas City, and Manassas Park City. 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.

“Extreme heat isn’t just uncomfortable, it can pose serious health risks especially for older adults, young children, and people with chronic conditions,” said PWHD Health Director Luke Davies, MPH. “We urge everyone to take precautions, stay cool, and check in on neighbors during periods of high heat.”

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, age, weight, heart disease, poor circulation, alcohol, sunburn, and prescription drugs play a factor in how quickly 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 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. If an individual loses consciousness, has a fast, strong pulse, hot, red skin and/or temperatures of 103° F, call 911 immediately. Heat stroke is an emergency.

Keep these tips in mind for a safe, cool summer. Remember that Prince William Health District can be a resource for summer safety.

# # #

Local Health Officials Offer Tips to Keep Healthy and Cool as Temperatures Climb

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.

# # #

LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts Share Ways to Beat the Summer Heat and Stay Healthy

June 24, 2025
Media Contact: Michelle McPheron, Nurse Manager, michelle.mcpheron@vdh.virginia.gov

LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts Share
Ways to Beat the Summer Heat and Stay Healthy

WISE, Va. — Last summer, Virginia saw more than 3,200 heat-related visits to emergency departments (EDs) and urgent cares according to the surveillance dashboard. “Summer is all about fun in the sun, but as temperatures rise, you should take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” says Reisa Sloce, LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health District’s Director.

When temperatures climb into the 90s and 100s, make sure you follow these tips to stay healthy:

  • Keep cool. Whenever possible, stay in the air conditioning.  Check with your local government for cooling centers or visit indoor locations like libraries or malls.
  • Stay hydrated. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink. Drink water and plenty of it. Avoid drinks high in sugar, sodium, caffeine, and alcohol.
  • Wear sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Apply every two hours.
  • Eat light meals. Avoid hot, heavy meals. They add heat to the body. Avoid using the stove or oven to cook. It will make you and the house hotter.
  • Dress light. Wear loose, light-colored, and lightweight clothing.
  • Limit time outside. Try to limit your outdoor activity to when it’s coolest, like morning and evening hours. Stay in the shade when you can.
  • Protect others. Never leave children or pets in cars. Get in the habit of always checking your back seat to make sure no child or pet is left behind.
  • Stay informed. Pay attention to the forecast. Understand heat advisories.
  • Make sure you check on your neighbors. Keep an eye on vulnerable populations, such as outdoor workers, elderly adults, infants and children, individuals with chronic conditions, pregnant women, athletes.
  • Know the Symptoms. Pay attention to your body to recognize the signs of heat-related illness. Cool down with a shower or a bath. Seek medical care immediately if symptoms worsen.
  • Call 911 immediately if an individual loses consciousness, has a fast, strong pulse, has hot, red skin, and/or has a temperature of 103 degrees or higher.

Check out the Heat Risk Forecast for heat risk and keep these tips in mind for a safe, cool summer. Remember your local health department is a great resource for summer safety.

New River Health District Offers Tips to Keep Healthy and Cool as Temperatures Climb 

June 20, 2025
Media Contact: Beverly Hill, Beverly.hill@vdh.virginia.gov

New River Health District Offers Tips to Keep Healthy and Cool as Temperatures Climb
Extreme Heat Expected to Impact the New River Valley 06/23/2025 – 06/29/2025

CHRISTIANSBURG, Va. – As extreme heat moves into the New River Valley, heat-related illnesses are a real concern. The New River 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 this year, there were 5 visits for Montgomery County and Radford City, from May 1 – June 15, 2025.  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. 

The health director for the New River Health District, Noelle Bissell, M.D. noted, “It’s important to stay informed about forecast temperatures and conditions, and to plan accordingly.”

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, age, weight, heart disease, poor circulation, alcohol, sunburn, and prescription drugs play a factor in how quickly 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.
    Visit local libraries, recreation centers, governmental centers and look to local fire/rescue squads for places to cool down for those who don’t have air conditioning.
  •  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.  If an individual loses consciousness, has a fast, strong pulse, hot, red skin and/or temperatures of 103° F, call 911 immediately. Heat stroke is an emergency. 

Keep these tips in mind for a safe, cool summer. Remember that New River Health District can be a resource for summer safety. 

Local Health Officials Offer Tips to Keep Healthy and Cool as Temperatures Climb

June 20, 2025
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Local Health Officials Offer Tips
to Keep Healthy and Cool as Temperatures Climb
Extreme Heat Expected to Impact Shenandoah Valley this Coming Week

STAUNTON, Va. – As extreme heat moves into the Shenandoah Valley, heat-related illnesses are a real concern. Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) locations offer 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 526 visits for the northwest region. 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.

“The Shenandoah Valley has been experiencing longer, hotter summers and more severe heat over the years,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, interim health director of CSHD. “Whether you work outdoors, enjoy exercising at your local park, or don’t have air conditioning, it is important to know how to protect your health from extreme heat.”

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, age, weight, heart disease, poor circulation, alcohol, sunburn, and prescription drugs play a factor in how quickly 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. If an individual loses consciousness, has a fast, strong pulse, hot, red skin and/or temperatures of 103° F, call 911 immediately. Heat stroke is an emergency.

Keep these tips in mind for a safe, cool summer. Remember that your local health department can be a resource for summer safety.

RHHD Shares Tips for Preventing and Recognizing Heat-Related Illness

June 2, 2025
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov

 RHHD Shares Tips for Preventing and Recognizing Heat-Related Illness

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) share tips for preventing and recognizing the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness. Prolonged exposure to heat can cause cramping, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and even death.

“The greater Richmond region is experiencing longer, hotter summers and more severe heat waves due to climate change,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Built Environment Policy Analyst Peter Braun. “Whether you work outdoors, enjoy exercising at your local park, or ride the bus to get around, it is important to know how to protect your health from extreme heat.”

Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit for at least two to three days. During periods of extreme heat, the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature because evaporation of sweat is slowed.

RHHD shares the following information that can help community members stay cool during extreme heat and recognize when they or someone else is showing the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness.

What to do during an extreme heat event

  • Check the National Weather Service HeatRisk map daily.
  • Spend time in air-conditioned places.
  • Check on older, sick or disabled people.
  • Drink water and avoid alcohol and caffeinated or sugary drinks.
  • Know the symptoms of heat-related illness and what to do.
  • Minimize sun exposure and wear sunscreen (SPF 30 or above).
  • Eat light, cool, and easy-to-digest foods.
  • Take a cool shower or bath.
  • Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes.
  • Check local weather and news for heat alerts.
  • Use a fan to provide comfort when temperatures are below 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Don’t leave children, pets, or persons with mobility challenges alone in cars for any amount of time.
  • Don’t exercise outdoors during the hottest parts of the day (12 – 4 p.m.).
  • Talk to your doctor about medications that interfere with temperature regulation.

Recognize the signs of Heat Related Illness

  • Signs of Heat Exhaustion: Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses too much water and salt from sweating during hot temperatures. The elderly, people who work outside, and people with high blood pressure are most at risk of heat exhaustion. Continued exposure may lead to heat stroke, which is life-threatening.
    • Feeling faint or dizzy
    • Excessive seating
    • Cool, pale, clammy skin,
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Rapid, weak pulse
    • Muscle cramps
  • Signs of Heat Stroke: Heat stroke is caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures or by doing physical activity in hot weather. Body temperatures can reach as high as 106 degrees Fahrenheit in 15 minutes. Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition, and you should seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you know is suffering from heat stroke.
    • Throbbing headache
    • No sweating
    • Body temperature above 103 degrees Fahrenheit
    • Red, hot, dry skin
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Rapid, strong pulse
    • Loss of consciousness
  • Heat Cramps: Heat cramps are painful, involuntary muscle spasms that usually occur during heavy physical activity in hot environments. Muscles most often affected include those of your calves, arms, abdominal wall and back. If you are suffering from heat cramps, rest for several hours and drink clear juice or an electrolyte-containing sports drink.
  • How to cool yourself or someone else:
    • Get to a cooler, air-conditioned place
    • Drink water if you or they are fully conscious
    • Take a cool shower or use a cool compress.

The City of Richmond offers cooling refuge at the following locations. Visit rva.gov/human-services/inclement-weather for more information.

·       Monday – Saturday

o   Department of Social Services – Marshall Plaza

900 E. Marshall St., Suite 160

11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

o   Department of Social Services – Southside Plaza

4100 Hull Street Road

11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

When temperatures rise to 92 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, the City of Richmond activates a daily walk-up Inclement Weather Shelter from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. at 1900 Chamberlayne Avenue, Richmond, Virginia 23222. Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) bus service is zero-fare this summer and all GRTC buses are air-conditioned.

Henrico County provides cooling refuge at several recreation centers and at all Henrico Public Libraries.

Follow RHHD on Instagram at @richmondcity_hd and Facebook. For more health and safety information, visit rhhd.gov and sign up for RHHD’s monthly newsletter at rhhd.gov/news.

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RHHD and RAA Offer Heat Safety Tips Ahead of High Temperature Weekend

May 20, 2022
Media Contact:  Cat Long, RHHDpr@vdh.virginia.gov, 804-363-0933

RHHD and RAA Offer Heat Safety Tips Ahead of High Temperature Weekend

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) and Richmond Ambulance Authority (RAA) encourage Richmond area residents to take precautions to avoid heat related illness this weekend.

“Severe hot weather can pose risks to individuals’ health,” says Jessica Coughlin, Emergency Manager at RHHD. “Folks can still have fun this summer while staying safe… just stay aware of the temperature, personal health considerations, and safety precautions.”

“Unfortunately, we can see an uptick in heat related illnesses and calls when temperatures get really high,” says Chad Greedan, Director of Field Operations at RAA. “We want to help the community recognize the signs of heat illness so they don’t have an emergency situation.”

RHHD and RAA recommend the following to remain safe during high temperatures:

Stay cool indoors. Stay in air-conditioned places as much as possible. If air conditioning your home is difficult, consider spending some time in a public library, shopping mall, or other public air conditioned building. Taking a cool shower or bath and minimizing the use of the stove and oven can help keep a lower temperature in the house. Wear light and loose clothing. Electric fans will not prevent heat related illness if the temperature is above 90 degrees.

Schedule outdoor activities carefully. Try to limit outdoor activities to when it’s coolest like in the morning or evening. Rest often in shady areas.

Stay hydrated. Drink more fluids, avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks, and replace salt and minerals. Keep your pets hydrated with cool water, too!

Know the signs for heat related illness and how to respond. If a person has heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, a fast and weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, tiredness or weakness, dizziness, headaches, or is feeling faint, they likely have heat exhaustion. Move to a cool place, loosen clothes, put cool, wet cloths on your body, and sip water. Seek medical help if you are throwing up, your symptoms get worse, your symptoms last longer than an hour. If a person has a high body temperature of 103 degrees or higher, hot and red skin, a fast and strong pulse, confusion, or loses consciousness, they likely have heat stroke. Call 911 right away, move that person to a cooler place, and do not give them anything to drink.

For more information on heat related illness, visit the CDC’s website.

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