Tag: LENOWISCO Health District

LENOWISCO Health District Peer Recovery Specialist Nominated for Statewide Award

March 19, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, PIO, daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

LENOWISCO Health District Peer Recovery Specialist Nominated for Statewide Award

WISE, Va. — The Virginia Department of Health’s LENOWISCO Health District is proud to announce that James Mills from the Wise County Health Department has received a nomination to become SAARA’s Peer of the Year.

Each year, SAARA of Virginia’s Peer of the Year Award recognizes a peer recovery specialist who has gone above and beyond to support individuals, families, and communities on the path to recovery. Peers play a vital role in offering hope, connection, and lived experience to those navigating recovery, and we are proud to celebrate their impact across the Commonwealth.

This year, James Mills is 1 out of 10 outstanding finalists in Virginia who represent the compassion, dedication, and leadership that define peer recovery support. Voting for the 2026 Peer of the Year Award is open March 17 through April 17 on SAARA of Virginia’s website. Please take a moment to vote for James Mills as we believe he best embodies the spirit of recovery and peer support: www.saara.org/2026luncheon

“James brings compassion, understanding, and lived experience to the front lines with his job every day,” said Reisa Sloce, director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts.  His dedication helps build trust, break down stigma, and connect at-risk individuals to the resources they need. All peers play an essential role in supporting recovery and strengthening the health of our entire community.”

James Mills is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist who works in the LENOWISCO Health District serving Lee, Scott, and Wise Counties as well as the City of Norton.  James plays a vital role in the district’s comprehensive harm reduction program which began in 2018; the very first program of its kind in Virginia! Comprehensive harm reduction is a vital public health strategy that helps prevent the spread of communicable diseases and reduce the negative impacts of substance use while connecting individuals to care and support. By offering services such as access to naloxone, syringe services, testing for infectious diseases, and referrals to treatment and recovery resources, these programs help reduce overdose deaths, reduce the spread of diseases like HIV and hepatitis C, and improve overall community health.

Harm reduction programs also create trusted, nonjudgmental spaces where individuals can access education and support, making them more likely to seek treatment when they are ready. By meeting people where they are, these programs not only save lives but also strengthen connections to long-term care, benefiting both individuals and the broader community.

LENOWISCO Health District thanks James for his dedicated service and congratulates him on his nomination for SAARA’s Peer of the Year.

Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge You to Plan Ahead for Spring Severe Weather Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 9-13

March 10, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge You to Plan Ahead for Spring Severe Weather
Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 9-13

WISE, Va. – As spring approaches, warmer temperatures return — and so does the risk of severe weather. During Severe Weather Awareness Week, observed March 9-13, the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge you to plan ahead before storms strike.

“As we head into the spring season, it’s important for everyone to take a few simple steps now to be ready for severe weather,” said Reisa Sloce, District Director Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Storms can develop quickly, bringing heavy rain, flooding, and power outages. I encourage residents to review their emergency plans, check their supplies, and stay informed through trusted local alerts. Preparing ahead of time helps protect not only your family, but also your neighbors and community.”

Spring storms can bring a variety of severe weather hazards including tornadoes, thunderstorms with lightning and flooding. Here are some tips from your local health department to keep you safe during severe weather events.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes can form with little or no warning and bring winds more than 200 miles per hour.

If you are indoors:

  • Go to a basement or storm shelter.
  • If you do not have a basement, choose an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor, away from windows.
  • Do not stay in a mobile home.
  • Remain sheltered until you are sure the storm has passed.

If you are outdoors:

  • Seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately.
  • If driving, go to the nearest safe structure if possible.
  • If no shelter is available, lie in a low area away from trees and objects that could become airborne.
  • Do not shelter under bridges or overpasses.

Thunderstorms and Lightning

Thunderstorms can form quickly, bringing strong winds and dangerous lightning. Lightning can strike up to 10 miles from a storm.

To stay safe:

  • Trim trees and secure loose outdoor items before storms.
  • Go indoors at the first sign of thunder or lightning and bring pets inside.
  • Stay away from windows.
  • Avoid using electronics or anything plugged into an outlet.
  • Stay out of showers and away from plumbing.
  • Remain indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunder.

If you cannot get indoors, avoid water, tall trees, and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. If someone is struck by lightning, call 911 immediately.

Flooding

Floods are the most common disaster in the United States. Floodwater can contain debris, chemicals, and other hazards.

Key safety reminders:

  • Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwater. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
  • Six inches of moving water can knock you down; one foot can sweep away a vehicle.
  • Avoid bridges over fast‑moving water.

Severe Weather Awareness Week is an opportunity for you to review safety plans, refresh emergency kits, and learn how to stay informed before storms strike. Severe weather can develop quickly. Taking simple steps now can help protect you and your family.

  • Have a plan. Talk with your family about where to go and what to do if severe weather occurs. Make sure everyone knows the safest places in your home and how to communicate during an emergency. You can create a family emergency plan online.
  • Build an emergency kit. A disaster supplies kit includes the basic items your household may need if you must shelter in place for several days. This may include water, non‑perishable food, flashlights, batteries, medications, and important documents. Guidance on what to include and where to store your kit is available at gov.
  • Stay informed. Reliable alerts save lives. Use a weather radio, the FEMA app, or local alert systems to receive timely warnings. Check the settings on your mobile device to ensure you can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs). Make sure you understand the difference between watches and warnings so you know when to take action.

If you have questions about weather safety, please contact Delilah McFadden with the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or Darrin Rowe with the LENOWISCO Health District at 276-386-1312.

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Offer Safety Tips to Stay Warm During Extreme Cold

January 29, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Offer Safety Tips to Stay Warm During Extreme Cold

WISE, Va. – As southwest Virginia continues to see dangerously cold temperatures, hypothermia and frostbite are real concerns. The Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge you to take steps to keep you and your family warm, dry, and healthy throughout this winter season.

“Even if you’re a cautious winter driver, it’s helpful to prepare for any scenario, from a flat tire to sliding off the road,” said Reisa Sloce, Director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Emergency preparedness is even more critical during the winter, with freezing temperatures that can become dangerous if you’re stranded for too long.”

Hypothermia occurs most commonly at very cold environmental temperatures but can occur even at cool temperatures (above 40°F) if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or submersion in cold water. Signs to look out for include shivering, exhaustion or fatigue, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and/or drowsiness. In babies look for bright red, cold skin and very low energy.

Frostbite is a type of injury caused by freezing. If you notice redness or pain in any skin area, get out of the cold. The skin will feel numb, unusually firm or waxy, and can also appear white or grayish yellow. If you have frostbite, you may not know until someone else points it out because the frozen parts of your body are numb.

The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts encourage you to take these steps to prevent hypothermia, frostbite and other potential injuries.

Staying Warm

  • Stay indoors and limit your exposure to the cold.
  • Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have water.
  • Eating healthy meals will help to keep your body temperature warm.
  • Stay hydrated even during the cold to prevent hypothermia. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. They cause your body to lose heat faster. Drink warm beverages or broth.
  • Keep extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats on hand for use in cold rooms.
  • Charge all your devices (medical equipment, phone, computer, tablet, radio, etc.).
  • Check on neighbors, friends, and family.
  • For a list of warming centers in your area, call 2-1-1 or visit org/

If You Go Outside

If you must go outside, please take these precautions:

  • Dress warmly and in layers. Make sure you cover your head, fingers and toes to prevent frostbite.
  • Be aware of the wind chill factor.
  • Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps.
  • Avoid getting wet. If you get wet, change out of wet clothes as soon as possible to prevent hypothermia.
  • Take frequent breaks if shoveling snow or working outdoors.

If You Must Drive

  • Stay at home and avoid travel. If you must travel, check the road conditions and your route first.
  • Allow extra time and follow these tips from the Virginia Department of Transportation.
  • If you must travel, let someone know your destination and when you expect to arrive. Ask them to notify authorities if you are late.
  • Always carry extra warm clothing and blankets with Don’t rely on a car to provide enough heat.
  • Have a winter emergency kit inside your car that includes:
    • Ice scraper
    • Warmth items such as blankets, extra gloves, etc.
    • Portable shovel
    • Flashlight
    • Extra batteries and a cell phone charger
    • A first aid kit
    • Jumper cables
    • A small container of sand or kitty litter for traction
    • Nonperishable food and water
    • Items for handling a flat tire

If you have chronic health conditions, please reach out to your healthcare provider to work together and ensure you have a care plan in place. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, home-use medical devices, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.

If you notice signs of frostbite and hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately.

If you have questions, contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at (276) 889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District at (276) 328-8000.

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

January 23, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, PIO; Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

WISE, Va. – A significant winter storm is expected to impact our community this weekend. The storm will arrive as snow Saturday afternoon and pick up overnight Saturday into Sunday continuing through the day.   An increase in sleet/freezing rain potential will complicate the forecast. The increased freezing rain probabilities amplify the concern for power outages. The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge everyone to prepare now to keep you and your family safe, warm and healthy during this storm.

“We strongly encourage everyone to take the time to prepare for severe winter weather this weekend,” said Reisa Sloce, District Director of Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts.  “It is important to check on your family and friends as well as any elderly community members to make sure they are prepared before the storm and safe during and after. We want you to stay warm, safe and healthy!”

Before the Storm

Before the storm arrives, the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge you to take these steps:

  • Make sure you have an emergency supply kit on hand and keep an emergency kit for your car.
  • Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, home-use medical devices, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
  • Check your smoke and carbon monoxide
  • Replenish fuel for your car and heating sources.
  • Weatherproof your home by insulating exposed pipes and caulking and weather strip doors/windows.
  • Make sure you understand the warnings, watches and advisories and have multiple ways to receive alerts.

During/After the Storm

  • Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have water.
  • Stay indoors and limit your exposure to the cold.
  • Properly ventilate emergency heat sources.
  • Keep generators outside at least 20 feet from your home.
  • Check on neighbors and family.

If you must go outside, take the following precautions to stay safe and prevent frostbite and hypothermia:

  • Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps.
  • Dress warmly and in layers. Make sure you cover your head, fingers and toes.
  • Avoid getting wet and change out of wet clothes as soon as possible.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink warm beverages.
  • Take frequent breaks if shoveling snow or working outdoors.
  • Stay off the roads. If you must travel, check the road conditions and your route first. Allow extra time and follow these tips from the Virginia Department of Transportation.

For more information, contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District 276-328-8000.

Virginia Cancer Registry to Release Report on Scott County Cancer Cluster Investigation

December 30, 2025
Media Contact: Linda Scarborough, linda.scarborough@vdh.virginia.gov

Virginia Cancer Registry to Release Report on Scott County Cancer Cluster Investigation
Town Hall Scheduled for January 8, 2026

GATE CITY, Va. – The Virginia Department of Health’s Virginia Cancer Registry (VCR) will release its Scott County pediatric cancer investigation report on January 8, 2026. Recognizing the impact of this investigation and the community’s ongoing concerns, the VCR and LENOWISCO Health District will host a public town hall meeting on January 8, 2026, to walk the community through the findings and answer questions. The meeting will be held at Gate City Middle School, located at 170 Harry Fry Drive in Gate City, from 6 to 8 p.m.

“We know this investigation has raised many concerns among our community,” said LENOWISCO Health District Director Reisa Sloce. “We want to offer this town hall as an opportunity to provide our residents with clear, transparent information about the investigation. It is important to support families seeking understanding as the community reviews the report together.”

Community members may attend the meeting in person, or they may join via a virtual option. Those interested in attending virtually may join through this link: https://vdhoep.webex.com/vdhoep/j.php?

The meeting agenda will include the following:

  • Update on the cancer cluster investigation process
  • Investigation report results
  • Ongoing investigation initiatives and updates

Once released, the report will be posted at www.vdh.virginia.gov/virginia-cancer-registry/cancer-clusters/ so the community will have a chance to review it before the town hall.

Following the presentation, the community will have an opportunity to ask questions. The panel will include representatives from the Virginia Cancer Registry, Virginia Department of Health, Office of Drinking Water, LENOWISCO Health District, Office of Epidemiology and others who will be available to provide detailed information and address questions.

Information about cancer cluster reporting and investigation procedures can be found on the Virginia Department of Health website at www.vdh.virginia.gov/virginia-cancer-registry/cancer-clusters/.

LENOWISCO Health District Pediatric Cancer Data Being Evaluated

November 12, 2025
Media Contact:  Linda Scarborough, Western Region PIO, linda.scarborough@vdh.virginia.gov

LENOWISCO Health District Pediatric Cancer Data Being Evaluated
Results expected to be released by year end 

GATE CITY, Va. — The Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Virginia Cancer Registry (VCR) is currently evaluating pediatric cancer data recently collected by the LENOWISCO Health District. Results from the survey data are expected to be completed by the end of this year. The information being reviewed by VCR will determine if a potential cancer cluster may exist. Once any conclusion is made, the details will be shared with the local community.

The investigation began when a group of Scott County residents contacted the Virginia Cancer Registry. They were concerned about the number of children with cancer in their area. In response, LENOWISCO Health District began collecting information from affected Scott County residents as a first step to investigating the concerns.

To be included, the patient must be:

  • 19 years of age or under.
  • diagnosed with any form of cancer between 2015 and 2023
  • a resident of Scott County prior to the cancer diagnosis.

“Once the survey was completed by the LENOWISCO Health District, the VCR began conducting an assessment of the 2015-2023 cases submitted to us. We are continuing to review the data and it is our hope to complete this process by the end of the year. We will also continue to monitor trends of recently reported cases as more information becomes available,” said VDH Division of Population Health Data Director Dane De Silva, PhD, MPH.

A cancer cluster is defined as a greater than expected number of the same or related cancer cases that occur within a group of people in a geographic area over a specific period of time. Overall, cancer clusters have proven to be extremely rare. To date, Virginia has no proven cancer clusters, and only a few have been identified within the United States.

“Causes of childhood cancer are very difficult to determine,” said Dr. De Silva. “However, we continue to review environmental concerns to evaluate if a concern warrants additional follow-up. Currently, we have not found any urgent environmental concerns in Scott County. We encourage community members to continue to share any environmental concerns they feel may be useful to this investigation.”

For more information about the Virginia Cancer Registry or the investigation process, visit: www.vdh.virginia.gov/virginia-cancer-registry/cancer-clusters/.

Cumberland Plateau Health District Receives Grants to Support Rural Health Care Services

September 22, 2025
Media Contact: Victoria Bartfai, victoria.bartfai@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau Health District Receives Grants to Support Rural Health Care Services
$2.2 Million Awarded to Benefit Southwest Virginia Mothers and Infants

TAZEWELL, Va. – The Virginia Rural Health Association (VRHA), serving as the backbone organization for the Cumberland Plateau Perinatal Health Network (CPPHN), has been awarded two major grants from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to strengthen maternal and infant health services across Southwest Virginia. The following grants were awarded to the Virginia Rural Health Association to support the expanding efforts of the Cumberland Plateau Perinatal Health Network:

  • HRSA Rural Health Care Services Outreach Program – $300,000 per year for four years, awarded specifically to the Cumberland Plateau Health District (Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell, and Tazewell counties). This funding will support expanded prenatal and postpartum care, workforce investments, and innovative outreach programs designed to improve access and outcomes for mothers and babies in rural communities.
  • Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies (RMOMS) – $1,000,000 for the first award year (renewable for up to four years), awarded to serve the broader Southwest Virginia region, including the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. The Network will coordinate this effort to expand perinatal services, train and deploy community health workers and doulas, integrate telehealth systems, and strengthen coordination among healthcare providers.

“It is such an honor to be selected as an RMOMS grantee,” said Beth O’Connor, Executive Director of the Virginia Rural Health Association. “Our tiniest Virginians deserve to have every opportunity for a healthy life.”

“We are honored to have received these two grants that will provide mothers and children with the vital resources needed to benefit their overall health and well-being.” said Victoria Bartfai, Maternal and Child Health Coordinator for the Cumberland Plateau Health District.

Both awards will be used to address the on-going health disparities throughout the region, including high rates of substance use during pregnancy, geographic isolation, and limited access to maternity care. Through these investments, the Cumberland Plateau Perinatal Health Network will help fill existing gaps, strengthen partnerships, and lay the foundation for long-term improvements in maternal and perinatal health.

This achievement reflects the collaborative efforts of the Cumberland Plateau Title V team, Virginia Department of Health’s Central Office Title V team, the Institute for Public Health Innovation, and VRHA.

To view the data on maternal and child health outcomes, visit the Virginia maternal and child health overview dashboard at https://dashboards.mysidewalk.com/vdh-mch-dashboard/impact-of-maternal-and-child-health

August 1, 2025
Media Contact: Michelle McPheron, michelle.mcpheron@vdh.virginia.gov

LENOWISCO Health District Wants to Make Sure
Your Child is Ready for School
Lee, Wise, Scott Health Departments Holding Vaccination Clinics

WISE, Va. – Setting your kids up for success this school year means making sure they have all the tools they need, including vaccines to protect against preventable diseases such as meningitis, measles, pertussis (whooping cough) and others. Lee, Scott, and Wise County/Norton City health departments are making it easy to get these required immunizations at a clinic during the month of August. School and sports physicals appointments are also available.

Virginia schools require immunizations for entry into kindergarten, seventh grade, and 12th grade.

Keeping children up to date on vaccinations can reduce severe illnesses, and unnecessary absences from school and work saving your family time and money.

“Vaccines are an important tool for keeping our children and communities healthy. School required vaccines are available at all our local health departments. Adolescent school required vaccines for rising 7th graders and rising 12th graders will also be available at orientation events next week at Union Middle School, LF Addington Middle School and Coeburn Middle School,” said Reisa Sloce, Director of the LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts.

Vaccines are safe and effective and are your child’s best defense against infectious disease. Measles is a recent example. The highly contagious disease that was declared eliminated in the year 2000 is experiencing a surge in the U.S. with more than 1,200 cases reported so far this year, including three cases in Virginia.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) encourages parents to talk with their child’s health care provider about recommended vaccinations. Vaccines are available through your pediatrician, pharmacies, and all local health departments. You will want to check in advance to see if appointments may be necessary.

Lee, Scott and Wise County/Norton City Health Departments offer school-required immunizations free of charge by appointment during regular clinic hours Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Please be sure to bring a copy of your child’s vaccination record. If you don’t have it, you can request the record here. If you have health insurance, please also bring your insurance card. Children who are uninsured can still be vaccinated at low or no cost through the Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) program which offers free vaccines to eligible children.

For more information, please contact your local health department: Lee County: 276-346- 2011, Scott County: 276-386-1312, or Wise County/Norton City: 276-328-8000.

Cumberland Plateau Health District Wants to Make Sure Your Child is Ready for School

August 1, 2025
Media Contact: Michelle McPheron, michelle.mcpheron@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau Health District Wants to Make Sure
Your Child is Ready for School
 Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell Health Departments
Holding Vaccination Clinics

LEBANON, VA. – Setting your kids up for success this school year means making sure they have all the tools they need, including vaccines to protect against preventable diseases such as meningitis, measles, pertussis (whooping cough) and others. Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell health departments are making it easy to get these required immunizations at a clinic held this month. School and sports physicals appointments are also available.

Virginia schools require immunizations for entry into kindergarten, seventh grade, and 12th grade.

Keeping children up to date on vaccinations can reduce severe illnesses, and unnecessary absences from school and work saving your family time and money.

“Vaccines are an important tool for keeping our children and communities healthy. School required vaccines are available at all our local health departments. Adolescent school required vaccines for rising 7th graders and rising 12th graders will also be available at the Dickenson County Back to School Bash on August 1,” said Reisa Sloce, LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts director.

Vaccines are safe and effective and are your child’s best defense against infectious disease. Measles is a recent example. The highly contagious disease that was declared eliminated in the year 2000 is experiencing a surge in the U.S. with more than 1,200 cases reported so far this year, including three cases in Virginia.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) encourages parents to talk with their child’s health care provider about recommended vaccinations. Vaccines are available through your pediatrician, pharmacies, and all local health departments. You will want to check in advance to see if appointments may be necessary.

Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell health departments offer school-required immunizations free of charge by appointment during regular clinic hours Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Please be sure to bring a copy of your child’s vaccination record. If you don’t have it, you can request the record here. If you have health insurance, please also bring your insurance card. Children who are uninsured can still be vaccinated at low or no cost through the Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) program which offers free vaccines to eligible children.

For more information, please contact your local health department: Buchanan County: 276-935-4591, Dickenson County: 276-926-4979, Russell County: 276-889-7621, or Tazewell County: 276-988-5585.

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.