Extreme Weather - Heat
Code Red Plan
The Department of Public Safety is responsible for recommending Code Red Hot Weather Health Warnings to the County Commissioners based on monitoring of National Weather Service forecasts. A Code Red Hot Weather Health Warning is issued in anticipation of an oppressively hot air mass with a heat index of 100ºF or greater. Such conditions have been associated with excess mortality, and residents should take precautions to prevent heat-related stress and exhaustion. A Code Red is typically called for an eight (8) hour duration (usually from 12 pm to 8 pm each day during the Code Red).
The Montgomery County Office of Public Health (OPH)) distributes hot weather educational materials to Montgomery County residents upon request. The Montgomery County Office of Senior Services maintains a list of weather-sensitive older residents who are currently case managed through the Office of Senior Services. The older adults are contacted by a case manager during heat emergencies.
Those especially at risk during extremely hot weather are very young children, the elderly, people with chronic medical conditions, and those taking certain medications.
- Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
- If at all possible, try to get outdoor work completed during the morning to avoid the warmest part of the day.
- Keep windows and interior doors open when running a fan at home.
- Keep cool by seeking an air-conditioned building if available, if not, seek rest in the shade.
- Most of the Senior Adult Activity Centers (SAACs) are air-conditioned, as are malls and libraries.
The safety of outdoor workers is a special concern during heat emergencies. Landscaping, roofing, highway, and construction crews, for example, need frequent breaks for hydration (water) and shade.
- Emergency Preparedness and Response - Extreme Heat (CDC)
- Emergency Preparedness and Response - Heat Stress in Older Adults (CDC)
- Emergency Preparedness and Response - Tips for Preventing Heat-Related Illness (CDC)
- National Weather Service - Heat Safety Tips
- WNPV Radio Interview with OPH Medical Director, Dr. Richard Lorraine