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NEWS RELEASE

August 10, 2009

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Howard County Issues a Health Alert in Response to High Temperatures

ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County Health Officer Dr. Peter Beilenson has issued a Health Alert for Howard County. The alert has been issued for Monday, August 10. The high temperatures combined with high humidity will make outside temperatures feel even hotter and the heat index values to reach 105 degrees Fahrenheit or more. Dr. Beilenson also recommends restricting strenuous outdoor activities and using caution when planning any outdoor activity.

The public is reminded that those in need of cooler shelter should visit Howard County’s senior centers, open on weekdays, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., or Howard County Library branches, open Mondays through Thursdays, 10 am to 9 pm and Fridays and Saturdays, 10 am to 6 pm. Both the Miller Branch (Ellicott City) and the Central Library (Downtown Columbia) are open on Sundays, 1 to 5 p.m. Residents are encouraged to call Maryland Access Point of Howard County (MAP) at (410) 313-5980 for heat-related, non-emergency information and assistance.

The warning signs of heat-related illness include the following: light-headedness, headaches, muscle cramps, mild nausea or confusion, fatigue or profuse sweating and rapid breathing. All residents are encouraged to take a common sense approach to the extreme heat and take the following precautions to prevent heat related illness:

• Increase fluid intake; drink non-alcoholic and caffeine-free liquids
• If possible, stay out of the sun between the hours of 10 am and 3 pm
• Pace yourself and take frequent breaks
• If you must be out in the heat, wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen
• Take a cool shower or bath if you are unable to move to an air-conditioned place
• NEVER leave children or pets unattended in a parked car or other hot environment.
• Check regularly on infants, elderly, family and neighbors with health conditions as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illness.

As with any other emergency, citizens should call 9-1-1 if they encounter a heat related emergency.