Community Corner

Hot Weather Survival Guide

Here's some advice on protecting yourself from the hot, hot weather.

With temperatures blazing into the triple digits, Cockeysville residents are encouraged to protect themselves against the extreme heat and humidity. 

According to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, heat-related illnesses occur when the body is unable to keep itself cool. Some of these illnesses include heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat strokes. Heat strokes can cause permanent disability or death, if not treated. Infants and children, young athletes, seniors and people with certain health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension are especially at risk. 

Baltimore County emergency management officials recommend the following steps to stay protected:

Find out what's happening in Hunt Valley-Cockeysvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • Stay indoors when the heat index is high, preferably in an air-conditioned space.
  • Try to schedule outdoor activities during cooler time periods, before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
  • Choose light-colored, loose fitting clothing.
  • Do not leave children or pets inside parked cars.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Use sunscreen, and reapply often.
  • Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes and face.
  • Reduce caffeine intake, alcoholic beverages and high-sugar drinks.  

Be sure to also check in on elderly and chronically ill friends and family members to make sure they are sheltered from the heat. In addition, keep your pets safe by providing them shelter and lots of water. 

To prevent power outages during extreme weather, BGE asks customers to keep curtains and blinds closed to keep out sunlight, set thermostats at 78 degrees, turn off non-essential devices powered by electricity and delay the use of major, heat-generating appliances such as stoves and dishwashers until after 9 p.m.

Find out what's happening in Hunt Valley-Cockeysvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

If you need access to an air-conditioned space, check out local restaurants, libraries, coffee shops, movie theaters, malls and community centers. 


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