Resources: Heat and Sun Safety:
Five Sun Safety Practices for The Whole Family
SEEK SHADE
Find shade under a dense tree canopy, shade sail, or pavilion
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Carry a sun umbrella for personal shade
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Use a pop-up UV shelter when at the beach or park
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Whenever possible, stay out of the sun from 10 AM – 4 PM when UV radiation is the stronges
WEAR SUNSCREEN
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Use sunscreen that protects from UV (ultraviolet) rays across the spectrum with SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30 or higher
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Reapplication is necessary every 2 hours and after swimming, sweating, or toweling off
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Most people do not put on enough sunscreen–aim for one ounce, which is about a palmfulÂ
STAY HYDRATED WEAR PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
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Long sleeves/pants with a dense weave or built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor)
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Wide-brimmed hat
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Closed-toe shoes and socks that cover the ankle
WEAR SUNGLASSES
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Choose sunglasses with a UV protective coating
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Wearing sunglasses helps protect the delicate skin around our eyes
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UV rays can also increase the risk of cataracts & macular degeneration–it makes sense to protect your eyes!
Know Before You Go – Check the UV Index
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The UV index can be found in most weather apps and also here
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Dermatologists recommend sun protection when the UV index is 3 and aboveÂ
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As levels approach 6 and above, it’s best to limit your time in the sun
Heat Safety
An extreme heat event or heatwave happens when temperatures are much hotter than average for several days or weeks. Extreme heat is deadly, and beacuase of the climate crisis, extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and lasting longer. The best thing to do is to take action and prepare. We are sharing few tips for heat safety below.
STAY HYDRATED
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Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Encourage others to do so as well.
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Drink sports replenishment drinks or keep salty snacks nearby to increase electrolytes you lose through sweat.
STAY PREPARED
Learn how to recognize and respond to heat illness.
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Check in with your community: express your needs and stay in contact with neighbors to make sure that everyone is safe.
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Limit your outdoor activity. If you must work outdoors, schedule tasks earlier or later in the day.
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Keep wet towels in the freezer to use to cool off during high temperatures
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Make sure you have plenty of lightweight, loose clothing to wear.
STAY COOL
Did you know? When temperatures are in the high 90s, fans may not prevent heat-related illness.
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Take a cool shower or bath for a better way to cool off.
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If you can, spending a few hours each day in air conditioning can help prevent heat illness.
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If you have air conditioning, be sure that it is in working order.
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If you do not have air conditioning or if there is a power outage, find locations where you can stay cool. For example, a public library, shopping mall, or a public cooling centers.
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To find your local cooling center in Maryland, click HERE
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If you have questions or need help navigating these resources, please reach out to your Coordinator.
We are here to support you, and are committed to helping you stay safe, stable, and connected
American Red Cross Extreme Heat Safety Checklist
