REGION– The Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) is urging residents and visitors to take steps to stay safe in the extreme heat.
The combination of high temperatures and humidity can pose serious health risks if proper precautions aren’t taken. While most healthy adults can tolerate short periods of heat, infants, young children, older adults, outdoor workers, and those with pre-existing health conditions are at higher risk of heat-related illness.
To prepare for extreme heat:
- Stay informed by monitoring local weather forecasts.
- Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with blinds, shades, or awnings to reduce heat entering your home.
- Identify nearby air-conditioned locations or cooling centers in your community.
- Check regularly on elderly family members, young children, neighbors, and pets.
If you work or spend time outdoors:
- Schedule strenuous activities for early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower.
- Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen.
- Stay hydrated by drinking water consistently throughout the day.
To prevent heat illness:
- Drink plenty of water; avoid alcohol and caffeine which can contribute to dehydration.
- Limit vigorous activity, especially during peak heat hours.
- Use fans and air conditioning whenever possible.
Even short periods of extreme heat can be dangerous. Learn more about Extreme Heat and find information on how to prepare before, during and after an emergency or disaster, visit http://www.michigan.gov/miready and follow MSP/EMHSD on X at @MichEMHS.
In addition to MSP/EMHSD’s safety reminders, the Michigan Department of Health and
Human Services has issued important health and safety recommendations for coping with excessive heat.
