Severe Weather
Extreme Heat
During extreme temperatures, individuals must monitor and limit their exposure to the heat. The very young, elderly, and those with certain medical conditions are especially vulnerable to prolonged exposure to excessive heat.
How to stay safe on hot days
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Stay cool
- Spend time in air conditioned buildings (like libraries, movie theaters, malls) if you can and avoid direct contact with the sun
- Reduce physical activity and move to shaded areas
- Do outdoor activities in the cooler morning and evening hours
- Cover windows with drapes or shades
- Cool your body down quickly by wearing a wet scarf, bandana, or shirt
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Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water and don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink more. Limit or avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can be dehydrating,
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No one left behind
Don’t leave infants, children, or pets in parked cars.
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Watch for signs of heat-related illness
Heat exhaustion takes place when someone’s body cannot cool itself quickly enough. Symptoms include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, fast or weak pulse, dizziness, headache, fainting, nausea, vomiting
For heat exhaustion, go to a cooler location and remove excess clothing. Take sips of a sports drink or water. Call your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or last more than one hour.
Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which can cause death or permanent disability unless treated immediately. Symptoms include: rapid, strong pulse; dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness. Call 9-1-1 for help.
Extreme Cold
Extreme cold weather, freezing rain, snow, and ice can create unsafe conditions. Older adults, young children, and sick individuals are at a greater risk for frostbite and hypothermia. Storms can last a few hours or several days. They also have the potential to knock out heat, power, and communication services.
Prepare for Cold Severe weather:
- You can prepare your home for cold weather by installing insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Learn how to keep your pipes from freezing.
- Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Remember everyone’s needs like medication, and include your pets in your planning. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights on hand. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program may be able to help if you are unable to afford your heating costs, weatherization, or energy related home repairs.
- Be aware of roads with snow and ice priorities, should you need to travel. The Cities of Lakewood and University Place and Town of Steilacoom have snow and ice priority maps for your safety.
How to stay safe during a winter storm
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During a storm warning
- Stay off roads if at all possible. If you are trapped in your car then stay inside.
- Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
- Reduce the risk of a heart attack by avoiding overexertion when shoveling snow and walking in the snow.
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After the storm
- Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use a portable generator inside your home or garage during power outages and do not heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven.
- Be cautious of black ice. It is most dangerous in the early morning due to below freezing nighttime temperatures.
- Check on family, friends, and neighbors.