FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 11, 2019
LAS VEGAS – The Las Vegas Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning in Nevada, and the Southern Nevada Health District is urging residents and visitors to take precautions now and throughout the summer.
Triple-digit temperatures are common between June and September in Southern Nevada. Everyone should take precautions to reduce their risk of heat-related illnesses. High summer temperatures can be especially harmful to older adults, people with chronic medical conditions, and children. Residents and visitors who may not be used to the high temperatures should use precautions. The following steps can help minimize the risk of heat-related illness and injury:
- Plan activities earlier in the morning or later in the evening.
- Dress in light, loose fitting clothes.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect the face and use sunscreen.
- If unaccustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and gradually increase the pace.
- Avoid being out in the sun for extended periods.
- When planning extended outdoor activity, bring an adequate supply of water. Drink plenty of water at regular intervals – regardless of activity level.
- Avoid alcohol or liquids that contain high amounts of sugar.
- Plan well-balanced light meals.
- Check the local weather forecasts and plan activities accordingly.
- Check on the status of homebound neighbors and relatives.
Caution: People who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restrictive or low-salt diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake or changing what they eat and drink.
“The best defense against heat-related illness is prevention,” said Dr. Joe Iser, Chief Health Officer for the Southern Nevada Health District. “Taking steps to stay cool and making simple changes to your fluid intake, outdoor activity levels, and clothing choices during hot weather and extreme heat conditions can help you to have a safe, healthy, and happy summer.”
More information on extreme heat is available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/index.html. For more summer safety tips, visit the Health District’s website at https://www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org/safer-summer.
The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.