American Red Cross – Extreme Heat Preparedness Checklist

CLICK HERE FOR THE PREPAREDNESS CHECKLIST AND INFORMATION

As the weather forecast heats up starting tomorrow – please help us ensure that our residents and visitors to Maine are safe!  I encourage you to share this information with your constituents & neighbors, family and friends.

Heat is more than uncomfortable, it can be deadly, especially for older adults, the very young and those with chronic medical conditions. Last year, some 2,300 heat-related deaths occurred. To help stay safe, the Red Cross recommends that people take three steps:

1.           Slow down by postponing or limiting outdoor activities, including strenuous exercise. If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks and avoid        the hottest part of the day by scheduling tasks earlier or later. Hot cars can be deadly — never leave children or pets in your vehicle alone.

2.           Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. Check that animals also have access to plenty of fresh water and shade.

3.           Spend time indoors in an air-conditioned place. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a public library, shopping mall or a public cooling center. CALL 211 to find an open location. Check on loved ones and neighbors who may be at risk and do not have air conditioning to make sure they are safe.

Please reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns.

Caroline King

Executive Director, Northern and Eastern Maine

American Red Cross | Northern New England Region | Serving Aroostook, Washington, Hancock, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Somerset and Waldo Counties

Book time with King, Caroline (Maine): Let’s Chat!

900B Hammond Street 

Bangor, ME 04401

Cell: 207-272-9561

Office:  207-941-2903

Caroline.King3@redcross.org