Heat, Fire Weather Concerns For SoCal This Week

The following information was supplied by the Los Angeles Fire Department:

With the arrival of peak summer temperatures in Southern California, the Los Angeles Fire Department suggests that you:

• Minimize the risks of hot weather.
• Prepare your household, pets and workplace.
• Plan to get relief from and avoid the effects of heat.

Plan to wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing that covers as much of your skin as practical, and a well-ventilated hat with a wide brim - or carry an umbrella. Wear plenty of sunblock and stay in the shade whenever possible.

Heat wave hitting region this week

A heat wave brought triple-digit heat to some valley areas Monday at the start of a week likely to see a heightened danger of fire along with a risk of thunderstorms, forecasters said.

The high temperatures forecast for this week - with triple-digit heat expected in both valley and mountain areas - will result from a strong upper- level high-pressure system centered over the great basin, according to an National Weather Service advisory. The peak of the heat wave will be between Monday and Wednesday.

No red flag warnings were in effect early Monday, but "the hot temperatures combined with very low humidities will bring elevated fire weather concerns to interior portions of southwest California'' through Monday. Westwood and Century City are included in the NWS advisory. Some monsoonal pressure is expected, which will result in a slight chance of afternoon and evening thunderstorms in the Antelope Valley and the mountains of Ventura and Los Angeles counties between Tuesday and Friday, according to the advisory.

Adjust your attire and activities to limit heat exposure and exertion!

Water is normally the best drink during hot weather, and you'll need more than you think. If you have a medical condition or are under a doctor's care, consult with a physician.

Drinks with alcohol or caffeine can make the heat's effect on your body much worse. Avoid salt tablets unless directed by a doctor, and plan on eating light, healthy meals.

If you feel ill, tell someone immediately. Symptoms of dehydration and heat illness may include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, nausea, muscle cramps, headache and vomiting.

Many heat emergencies occur to people exercising, working or staying alone. Use a buddy system and check on elderly, disabled or at-risk neighbors on a regular basis. If you suspect someone is experiencing a medical emergency from extreme heat exposure, call 9-1-1.

If your home does not have air conditioning, consider a cool place to visit or stay during the hottest part of the day.

Schools, libraries, theaters, shopping malls and community facilities such as senior centers and parks may offer an air-conditioned refuge. If activated by officials during peak temperatures, designated cooling centers in the Greater Los Angeles area can be found by calling 2-1-1.

Pets, horses, and livestock are also susceptible to hot weather. See that the special needs of your animals are met, including copious shade and plenty of cool water. Never leave children, pets or dependent adults alone in a hot car. Even with the windows down, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can quickly rise to lethal levels.

Learn more about hot weather safety at emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat.

(City News Service contributed to this report.)