FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 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:
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- All 12 PWC Public Libraries during normal business hours, including libraries in Manassas City.
- Manassas Park City Hall, Community Center and Police Station, more details.
- 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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