News

BCHD Issues Heat Advisory

The City of Baltimore is under a code red extreme heat advisory.  With the heat index continuing to reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the Baltimore region, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Letitia Dzirasa has extended the previously announced Code Red Extreme Heat Alert through Monday, July 22nd.  The heat index is a measure of air temperature and relative humidity and indicates how hot it feels to the human body.

“Excessive heat is the leading weather-related killer in the United States. The effects of extreme heat are exacerbated in urban areas, especially when combined with high humidity and poor air quality,” said Commissioner of Health Dr. Letitia Dzirasa. “Extreme heat is particularly dangerous to young children, older adults, and those with chronic medical conditions. I encourage all residents to take the necessary steps to protect themselves as well as their families, neighbors, and pets.”

Dr. Olufunke Pickering, Senior Medical Advisor, Bureau of Maternal & Child Health, Baltimore City Health Department, noted that overheating in infants can increase the risk of SIDS. She encourages parents and caregivers to find a cool place and avoid going out in the heat with babies or children. It is important to keep infants well hydrated with breast milk or formula. Children and adults should drink plenty of water for hydration and avoid sugary drinks. Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles, even for short periods of time, as temperatures can rise quickly leading to death. Wear light-colored clothes as dark colors absorb heat.

Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.  Seek medical help immediately if these symptoms occur: 

• confusion
• nausea
• lightheadedness
• hot/dry/flushed skin
• rapid or slowed heartbeat
• high body temperature with cool/clammy skin

The Community Action Partnership Centers will open the following cooling centers on Tuesday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.