Full Notification

As we are anticipating very high temperatures in the coming days, we at the Office of Emergency Management are recommending that people in Santa Barbara County take the following precautionary steps to stay safe and healthy:

1. Reduce exposure to the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest, and keep physical activities to a minimum during that time. When working outside, drink plenty of water or juice even if you are not thirsty, and take rest breaks in the shade.

2. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to cover the face and neck, and wear loose-fitting clothing to keep cool and to protect your skin from the sun.

3. Wear sunglasses that provide 100 percent UVA and UVB protection. Chronic exposure to the sun can cause cataracts, which left untreated, can lead to blindness.

4. Liberally apply sunscreen (at least SPF 15) 15 minutes before venturing outdoors and re-apply at least every two hours – sunscreen helps prevent skin cancer.

5. Never, EVER leave infants, children, frail elderly, or pets unattended in a parked car – it can take as little as 10 minutes for the temperature inside a car to rise to levels that can lead to heatstroke and death.

6. To prevent overheating, use cool compresses, misting, showers and baths – if you or someone experiences a rapid, strong pulse, feels delirious, becomes unconscious or has a body temperature above 102, call 911 immediately.

7. Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness and death. During conditions of extreme heat, spend time in doors in air-conditioned environments when possible.

For additional references and protective measures please visit the CDC’s website at: http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heat_guide.asp or the
California Department of Public Health’s website at: http://www.cdph.ca.gov/Pages/NR2009-60.aspx