City declares first code red heat day of summer

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— The Baltimore City Health Department issued the first code red heat alert of the summer on Sunday, July 7.

With temperatures expected to remain in the 90s for the rest of the week, here’s a few tips to help you stay cool and safe.

The Baltimore City Health Department recommends that City residents:

Drink plenty of water or juice

Avoid alcohol and caffeine

Wipe skin with cool water as needed

Reduce outside activities

Wear light-weight and light-colored clothing

Stay inside during the hottest time of day (between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.)

Seek relief from the heat in air-conditioned locations

Check on older, sick or frail people in your community who may need help responding to the heat

City residents who want information on the cooling centers can call 311. Any City resident experiencing the signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke should call 911.

Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion, which can lead to heat stroke:

Confusion

Nausea

Light-headedness

Muscle cramps

Cool and clammy skin

Symptoms of heat stroke include:

Confusion

Hallucinations

Slurred Speech

Hot, dry, flushed skin

Rapid or slowed heart beat

Seek medical help immediately if any of the above symptoms occur.