Tag: heat stroke

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Urge Fourth of July Safety as Heat Wave Approaches

July 1, 2026

Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov

 Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Urge Fourth of July Safety as Heat Wave Approaches

RICHMOND, Va. – A dangerous heat wave is expected over the Fourth of July weekend, and the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts are reminding everyone to take extra care while celebrating. High temperatures, holiday cookouts, and water fun can increase the risk of heat illness, foodborne illness, and injuries. Simple steps such as staying cool, handling food safely, grilling with caution, and watching children closely at the pool can help keep families safe during the holiday.

“Our communities could see record-high temperatures in the coming days, so we urge you to take precautions to keep everyone safe and healthy as we’re enjoying this weekend’s celebrations,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Acting Director Melissa Viray. “Here are some Independence Day safety tips to keep in mind.”

Heat Safety

Extreme heat can be deadly. High temperatures and humidity can put you at risk of heat-related illness. Prolonged exposure to heat can cause cramping, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and even death. Be aware of the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

When you are spending time outdoors in the heat, it is important to remember these tips:

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, not just when you are thirsty. Avoid sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic drinks.
  • Slow down and limit outdoor activities between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest time of day. Take breaks in the shade. Check that animals also have access to fresh water and shade.
  • Spend time indoors with air conditioning and fans. If you don’t have air conditioning, visit a cooling center. Check on loved ones and neighbors who may be at risk and don’t have air conditioning.

Food Safety

During the summer months, food poisoning is another concern due to warmer temperatures. Each year, 1 in 6 Americans get sick from eating contaminated food. Food poisoning symptoms include diarrhea, stomach pain or cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Keep yourself, guests and food safe by following these safety tips:

  • Thaw and marinate food in the refrigerator. Cook food to a safe internal temperature. Store cooked food in a hot holding area (like an insulated container).
  • Keep food cold with ice packs. Don’t let food sit out for more than two hours, or for one hour if the temperatures are higher than 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Don’t cross-contaminate. Wash fresh produce before cutting. Use clean utensils and wash/sanitize in between use. Store raw meat on the bottom shelf to avoid meat juices from dripping on other food. Wash your hands before, during and after handling food.

Grilling Safety

Grilling is a popular way to prepare food throughout the summer, but it can present some hazards. July is the most common month for grill fires. Take these steps to ensure proper safety measures are followed:

  • Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use. Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
  • Never grill indoors, that includes in your house, camper, tent or any enclosed area.
  • Make sure everyone but the cook stays away from the grill, including children and pets.
  • Keep the grill away from the house or anything that could catch fire.
  • Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill.

Water Safety

Pools, beaches, lakes and rivers can provide hours of enjoyment for adults and children. But many dangers exist around water. Everyone needs to be aware and take the necessary precautions to avoid potential injury or death.

  • Constantly supervise children around water and avoid distractions. If you have a pool, secure it with appropriate barriers.
  • Designate a water watcher whose sole responsibility is to oversee the activity in the water.
  • Wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around water, especially children and non-experienced swimmers. Do not rely on life jackets
  • Don’t swim alone and only swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards.
  • Reach or throw an object to the person in trouble in the event of an emergency. Don’t go in! You could become a victim yourself.

For additional information on healthy and safe swimming, visit swimhealthyva.com. For more Independence Day safety tips, visit rhhd.gov and follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.

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Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Share Tips to Beat the Heat and Stay Safe

Posted on by lindascarborough

June 12, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Share Tips to Beat the Heat and Stay Safe

WISE, Va.– Summer heat can affect anyone, no matter your age. Older adults and children are most susceptible, but even healthy young adults are not protected from the dangers of extreme heat. Last summer, people in their 20s (18%) and 30s (17%) were the highest percentage of the more than 4,000 Virginians seeking health care for heat-related illnesses. The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts are reminding everyone to take hot weather seriously and to know how to stay safe when temperatures climb.

“As temperatures rise, it’s important for everyone to take heat safety seriously,” said Reisa Sloce, director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly and affect anyone, but older adults, young children, outdoor workers, and individuals with chronic health conditions are at greater risk. Staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, seeking air-conditioned spaces, and checking on family members and neighbors can help prevent serious illness. A little preparation and awareness can go a long way in keeping our communities safe and healthy throughout the summer.”

Heat can be dangerous for anyone, but some people face higher risk. Adults 65 and older, young children, pregnant women, and people with health conditions like heart disease have a harder time staying cool. Their bodies are less efficient at regulating body temperature and, and they may not be able to protect themselves.

The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to know your risk. The CDC’s HeatRisk tool allows you to track heat risk for the week by zip code.

When the risk is elevated, the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts suggests these tips:

  • Drink water throughout the day, not just when you are thirsty.
  • Avoid drinks with caffeine
  • Limit outdoor activities between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest time of day.
  • Take breaks. If you work outdoors find shade as often as possible.
  • Keep cool indoors with air conditioning and fans. Don’t have air conditioning? Visit a cooling center.

Even with good planning, you can still get sick from the heat. Knowing the signs heat stroke and heat exhaustion helps you act fast.

Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of water and salt, usually through excessive sweating. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms of heat exhaustion, move to a cooler place, loosen tight clothing and use cool wet clothes to help lower their body temperature:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness or tiredness
  • Irritability
  • Thirst
  • Heavy sweating
  • Muscle cramps
  • Fast or weak pulse
  • Body temperature 101° or higher

If you or a loved one experience any of these heat stroke symptoms, call 911 immediately:

  • Confusion, altered mental state, slurred speech
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Hot, red, dry or damp skin
  • Very high body temperature
  • Seizures

Planning ahead and knowing how to beat the heat can help you avoid a trip to the emergency room. Stay aware, take breaks, and look out for others. Check on vulnerable neighbors, especially older adults, young children, and anyone who may struggle to stay cool. Working together, everyone can enjoy a safer, healthier summer.

For more heat safety tips, contact your local health department directly: Buchanan 276-935-4591; Dickenson 276-926-4979; Lee 276-346-2011; Russell 276-889-7621; Scott 276-386-1312; Tazewell 276-988-5585; Wise/Norton 276-328-8000.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Shares Tips to Beat the Heat and Stay Safe

June 5, 2026
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Shares Tips to Beat the Heat and Stay Safe

WARRENTON, Va.– Summer heat can affect anyone, no matter your age. Older adults and children are most susceptible, but even healthy young adults are not protected from the dangers of extreme heat. Last summer, people in their 20s (18%) and 30s (17%) were the highest percentage of the more than 4,000 Virginians seeking health care for heat-related illnesses. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District is reminding everyone to take hot weather seriously and to know how to stay safe when temperatures climb.

“As temperatures continue to rise, we encourage everyone to take simple but important steps to protect themselves and their families from heat-related illness,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat, check on older adults and vulnerable neighbors, and never leave children or pets in vehicles. With preparation and awareness, we can all stay safe and healthy this summer.”

Heat can be dangerous for anyone, but some people face higher risk. Adults 65 and older, young children, pregnant women, and people with health conditions like heart disease have a harder time staying cool. Their bodies are less efficient at regulating body temperature and, and they may not be able to protect themselves.

The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to know your risk. The CDC’s HeatRisk tool allows you to track heat risk for the week by zip code.

When the risk is elevated, the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District suggests these tips:

  • Drink water throughout the day, not just when you are thirsty.
  • Avoid drinks with caffeine
  • Limit outdoor activities between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest time of day.
  • Take breaks. If you work outdoors find shade as often as possible.
  • Keep cool indoors with air conditioning and fans. Don’t have air conditioning? Visit a cooling center.

Even with good planning, you can still get sick from the heat. Knowing the signs heat stroke and heat exhaustion helps you act fast.

Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of water and salt, usually through excessive sweating. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms of heat exhaustion, move to a cooler place, loosen tight clothing and use cool wet clothes to help lower their body temperature:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness or tiredness
  • Irritability
  • Thirst
  • Heavy sweating
  • Muscle cramps
  • Fast or weak pulse
  • Body temperature 101° or higher

If you or a loved one experience any of these heat stroke symptoms, call 911 immediately:

  • Confusion, altered mental state, slurred speech
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Hot, red, dry or damp skin
  • Very high body temperature
  • Seizures

Planning ahead and knowing how to beat the heat can help you avoid a trip to the emergency room. Stay aware, take breaks, and look out for others. Check on vulnerable neighbors, especially older adults, young children, and anyone who may struggle to stay cool. Working together, everyone can enjoy a safer, healthier summer.

For more heat safety tips, contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org.

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Hot Days Ahead: Protect Yourself from Heat Stroke

May 18, 2026
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.

Hot Days Ahead: Protect Yourself from Heat Stroke
Heat Safety Awareness Week: May 18-22

WARRENTON, Va. – As temperatures start to rise so does the risk for heat stroke. Already this spring the Virginia Department of Health reported a surge in heat-related illness. Record-breaking high temperatures kept emergency departments and urgent care centers busy. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health Department wants to help residents prepare now to prevent further emergencies this summer.

“As temperatures rise, it’s important for everyone to take simple steps to stay safe, drink plenty of water, avoid prolonged time in the sun, and check on older adults, young children, and neighbors who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illness,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “Heat stroke can happen quickly, but with awareness and preparation, it is preventable.” 

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. It’s important to know the signs of heat stroke and what to do.

  • Body temperature of 103° or higher
  • Hot, red, dry or damp skin
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Passing out

If someone is experiencing these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Move the person to a cooler place and use cool cloths or a bath to lower their body temperature. Do not give them anything to drink. People with heat stroke may choke.

To avoid heat stroke:

  • Drink water throughout the day, not just when you are thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine and alcohol as they can cause you to become dehydrated.
  • Limit outdoor activity between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest time of day. If you must be outside take breaks when you can and stay in the shade as much as possible.
  • Keep cool indoors with air conditioning and fans. If you do not have air conditioning go to a public place such as a library, store or cooling center.
  • Know your risk. The CDC’s HeatRisk tool also allows you to track heat risk for the week by zip code. The information can help you make informed decisions on when to scale back outdoor activities and check on vulnerable populations.

Individuals 65 years and older, young children and individuals with underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Their bodies are less efficient at regulating body temperature and often they cannot protect themselves. Check on elderly family members and neighbors.

Never leave a child alone in a car. In 2025, 31 children died of heat stroke in vehicles. Always check your car, especially the back seat, before you get out. More than half of child hot car deaths happen when a parent or caregiver forgets a child in the car. Place your cell phone, wallet or keys in the backseat as a reminder.

Last summer Virginia reported more than 4,000 heat-related emergency room and urgent care visits. In the Northwestern Region, reported 640 (15.8/10000) visits in 2025.

For more information, contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health Department at (www.rrhd.org).

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

June 26, 2025
Media Contact: Tes La Dieu, Population Health Manager and Public Information Officer,
(757) 594-7411, taylor.ladieu@vdh.virginia.gov

 

Local Health Officials Offer Tips to Keep Healthy and Cool as Temperatures Climb
Extreme Heat in the Greater Peninsula area June 26, 2025

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – As extreme heat moves into the Greater Peninsula region, heat-related illnesses are a real concern. Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts 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. 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 is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States and it’s getting worse each year due to rising temperatures and urban heat islands,” states Dr. Natasha Dwamena, Health District Director of the Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts (HPHD). “HPHD works closely with our locality partners to ensure the community is aware of tips to prevent heat stress and locate nearby cooling centers. It is important to remember that hot days can impact anyone, but certain conditions can worsen heat-related illnesses. Be sure to check on your family, friends, and neighbors, especially if they live alone or have chronic medical problems. We encourage everyone to make a plan for dealing with extreme heat or other weather-related incidents.”

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 the Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts can be a resource for summer safety.

 

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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.

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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.

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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.