DOH-Leon Urges Public to Take Precautions During Heat Advisory 

Contact:
PIO gladys.king@flhealth.gov

850-404-6328

Tallahassee, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Leon County (DOH-Leon) is urging residents to take necessary precautions and follow safety measures during the current heat advisory. With temperatures soaring and heat indexes reaching dangerous levels, it is important to prioritize the well-being of individuals and communities.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory forecasting high temperatures and humidity that pose health risks. DOH-Leon recognizes the importance of raising awareness and promoting measures to ensure the safety of residents during extreme weather conditions.

During this heat advisory, DOH-Leon recommends the following safety measures to minimize the risk of heat-related illnesses and emergencies:

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol, as they can lead to dehydration.

Stay cool. Avoid direct sunlight and long exposure to the sun. Spend time in air-conditioned environments. If you do not have access to air conditioning, consider visiting public buildings or public spaces with shade. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to help your body regulate its temperature. Protect your head and face with a wide-brimmed hat and use sunscreen to prevent sunburn. Minimize outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in shaded areas and avoid strenuous physical exertion.

Leon County’s Downtown Main Library (200 W. Park Avenue) will operate as a cooling station while the County remains under an excessive heat warning. As a cooling station, the County library will offer air conditioning, comfortable seating, water access, restrooms, information and assistance, charging stations, as well as all the usual library activities and materials.

Check on vulnerable individuals. Keep an eye on elderly neighbors, young children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, as they are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Ensure they have access to a cool environment and sufficient hydration.

Never leave children, vulnerable individuals, or pets unattended in vehicle. Temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly, even with the windows slightly open, and can be life-threatening.

DOH-Leon urges everyone to remain vigilant and look out for one another during this heat advisory. By following these safety measures, we can collectively reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and emergencies. Stay informed about the heat advisory by following the National Weather Service or your local news. For further information about heat-related health issues, please visit leon.floridahealth.gov.  

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About the Florida Department of Health

The Department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

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Follow the Florida Department of Health in Leon County on Twitter at @healthyleonfl. To learn more about DOH-Leon programs and services, visit www.leon.floridahealth.gov/.