(Santa Ana) – The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for areas of Orange County effective Saturday and Sunday, September 1-2 and Orange County residents are urged to take precautions to prevent heat related illnesses.

“The Labor Day weekend means backyard barbecues, outdoor activities and many special events,” said Dr. Eric Handler, County Health Officer. “This Labor Day, it will be especially important to stay cool and drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids to prevent serious heat related illnesses. Extra precautions are especially needed for older adults, those with preexisting medical conditions like heart or lung disease, those with disabilities, children, and those who may be working outdoors.”

For those who may not have air conditioning, the State of California has opened a Cooling Center at the Orange County Fairgrounds, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. According to the State, the Orange County Fairgrounds Cooling Center will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day through Tuesday, September 4. The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services has also established a toll free number for the public to get information on how to protect themselves from the hot weather. That number is (877) 435-7021 and it will be available through Tuesday, September 4. For information on other places to stay cool in Orange County, you can also call 2-1-1. If you are calling from a cell phone, dial (888) 600-4357.

Prolonged exposure to excessive temperatures may cause serious conditions like heat exhaustion or heat stroke and can even be fatal. Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, headache, nausea or vomiting and dizziness. Warning signs of heat stroke may include an extremely high body temperature, unconsciousness, confusion, hot and dry skin (no sweating), a rapid, strong pulse, and a throbbing headache. If symptoms of heat stroke occur, immediately call for medical assistance. Move the person to a shady area and begin cooling their body with water.

Recommended precautions to prevent heat related illnesses include:

• Staying cool indoors. Use your air conditioner to cool your home. If you don’t have air conditioning, visit public facilities, such as cooling centers or shopping malls, to stay cool. Do not rely on electric fans as your primary cooling device during a heat wave. When the temperature is in the high 90’s or higher, a fan will not prevent heat-related illness. A cool shower or bath is a more effective way to cool off.

• Drinking more fluids, especially water. Don’t wait until you are thirsty.

• Checking often on those at high-risk. This includes older adults, those with chronic medical conditions, people with disabilities, those who take certain medications and children. Make sure their air conditioner is turned on, or offer to take them to a cooler place.

If you have to be outside in the heat, follow these recommendations:

• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and a hat to provide shade from the sun. Use sunscreen.

• Avoid over-exertion and schedule outdoor activities for the cooler part of the day. Spend as much time as possible in the shade.

• Never leave children, older adults or pets unattended in closed cars or other vehicles. Remember that your pets need extra water and shade, too.

For more information on heat related illnesses, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov or the California Department of Public Health at www.cdph.ca.gov.

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