Preparation for Extreme Heat, Wildfires, Public Safety Power Shutoffs, and West Nile Virus
Living in California brings the potential of extreme heat, West Nile Virus, wildfire emergencies, and public safety power shutoffs (PSPS). Providers have an added responsibility to ensure the health and safety of persons in care should any of these events occur. The following information is to help Providers prepare for potential extreme heat, public safety power shutoffs, or wildfire emergencies.
Heat Preparedness California weather can bring high temperatures, posing a substantial risk to vulnerable populations that includes children, the elderly, and those with disabilities or chronic diseases. Providers should monitor weather predictions and forecast reports for extreme temperatures and take extra precautions to ensure persons in care are protected from adverse conditions that may cause heat-related illness.
In preparation for extreme heat events
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) indicate that some warning signs and symptoms of heat related illness include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Heavy sweating;
- Muscle cramps;
- Weakness;
- Headache;
- Nausea and/or vomiting;
- Diarrhea; • Tiredness; and,
- Dizziness.
- During warm weather, Providers should monitor persons in ELDER CARE daily for symptoms of heat-related illness.
Persons showing symptoms of heat-related illness should receive the appropriate care immediately.
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- The effects of heat-related illness can last up to seven days. The CDC and CDPH offer the following tips to stay safe during periods of excessive heat:
- Never leave the elderly in a parked car. Temperature inside a car can quickly rise to levels that can kill, even if windows are cracked open.
- Drink plenty of fluids, regardless of activity level and even if not thirsty. Avoid very cold drinks, which can cause stomach cramps or drinks with caffeine, alcohol, or high sugar content, which can cause loss of body fluid.
- Monitor those on medications. Many medications increase the likelihood of dehydration. • Stay in an air-conditioned area as much as possible. Call your local health department to see if there are any heat-relief shelters in your area. Electric fans may provide comfort but will not prevent heat-related illness.
- Limit outdoor activity to the coolest temperatures of the day, for example, during morning and evening hours. Rest often in shady areas.
- •Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing to keep cool and a wide-brimmed hat to cover the face and neck.
- Apply sunscreen with Sun Protection Factor 15 (SPF 15) or higher 30 minutes prior to going out, to protect skin from the sun. The CDC suggests that sunscreens that say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels, be used. Follow sunscreen directions on package.
* Heat Related Injuries and Skin Burns To prevent heat-related injuries and skin burns on contact with playground equipment, outdoor furniture, and surfacing materials (such as concrete or asphalt), it is crucial to provide proper supervision, test equipment temperature, and seek shade, especially during peak sun hours. Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day and be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses and skin burns.
Here are some tips from the CDC, CDPH and the National Safety Council (NSC):
- Test the temperature of the equipment, especially metal surfaces like furniture, slides and swings, with a light touch using the back of your hand. If it is too hot to touch comfortably, it is too hot to use.
Important!
Even in mild weather, as long as the equipment or surfacing is in direct sunlight for an extended period of time, there is a risk of sustaining a thermal burn injury.
- Make sure persons in care are in appropriate clothing and shoes to protect their skin from burns and injuries.
- Actively supervise SENIORS/ ELDERS, pay attention to their behavior and signs of overheating or any skin injuries.
- Elders more susceptible to skin burning because it is thinner and more delicate. “Let make sure to keep our seniors/ elderly hydrated, and cool during this summer”.
Source: California Department of Social Services (CDSS)
Provider Information Notices (PIN)
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