CALIFORNIA – The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) shared life-saving tips to stay prepared during the current heat wave in Southern California. 

The heat wave is expected to last until at least Saturday, August 23, with peak temperatures occurring on Thursday and Friday.

The National Weather Service defines a heat event as a forecast with a high risk of heat illness and fire danger across California.

It has issued extreme heat warnings for much of the region, including the Inland Empire, with temperatures reaching up to 110℉ in some areas.

Cal OES reminds residents of the importance of being prepared and notes that some communities are at higher risk for heat-related illness, including people with disabilities, older adults, and children.

Stay cool

Stay cool by visiting a local cooling center, library, community center, or mall. Take cool showers and wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.

Create a support network

Check in with family, friends, and neighbors, who can support you during heat events. Create a personal emergency plan to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

Sign up for alerts

Sign up for emergency alerts with your county or local officials. Residents can receive alerts via phone, email, text, or TTY devices. Enroll in medical baseline programs if you rely on electricity for medical needs.

Stay hydrated

• Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
• Consider sports drinks to replenish electrolytes.

Check on others

Check on elderly neighbors, people with health conditions, and children. Ensure they stay hydrated and have access to cool spaces.

Heat illness symptoms

Learn the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Know how to respond to these illnesses.

Cal Heat Score

CalHeatScore, launched this year by California’s OEHHA, offers local guidance to prevent heat-related illness and provides resources like cooling centers to help people prepare for extreme heat.