For Immediate Release: Tuesday, July 2, 2019
With the recent scorching temperatures, Montgomery County has activated an extreme heat plan for hyperthermia several times recently, and the alert remains in effect for tomorrow, Wednesday July 3. This warning means the heat index is expected to rise above 95 degrees. July and August are generally the County’s hottest months, and it can be expected that hyperthermia alert extreme heat warning days will continue throughout the summer.
When the extreme heat plan is activated, County officials urge residents to take precautions to protect themselves, and their pets, against heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
Extreme heat affects the body's ability to regulate temperature, which can create dangerous conditions if appropriate safety measures are not taken. Heat may affect air quality, especially in urban areas, and may have a stronger impact on the elderly, children and sick persons.
During excessive heat, homeless shelters operate under a hypothermia alert and allow residents to return to the shelter after work or daytime activities. Outreach programs are also encouraging unsheltered individuals to seek cool indoor locations and the Interfaith Works Empowerment Center at Progress Place is also available for unsheltered individuals. Residents concerned about the well-being of a homeless individual can call the 24-hour Homeless Information Line at 240-907-2688. Outreach partners will attempt to locate the individual and offer resources and support.
Residents are asked to check on elderly friends, relatives and neighbors who may be isolated to be sure they are not showing signs of heat-related illnesses. County facilities, including libraries, swimming pools, recreation and senior centers, as well as regional services centers are places to cool off during normal operating hours.
The County’s Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security issues heat-related alerts when conditions meet the following:
The following precautions will help residents remain safe and comfortable during excessive heat days:
In the event of an extreme temperature situation or weather emergency, owners must not leave a pet unattended outdoors. Under Executive Regulations 17-17, the director of the Montgomery County Police Department, Animal Services Division, has the authority to enforce Anti Cruelty Conditions for Dogs and Other Pets. Pet owners are advised to be particularly careful with pets in vehicles during high outdoor temperatures and be familiar with the signs of heat stress.
Sign up for the County's Alert Montgomery notification system to receive emergency alerts regarding weather and other emergency information. The Alert Montgomery System provides accurate and immediate emergency notifications from Montgomery County to your cell, work, or home phones via text, email, or voice message to receive notifications about emergencies that may affect your home, workplace, child's school, or any other locations within the County.
Release ID: 19-230