Take precautions to keep yourself and your pets safe in extreme heat

June 20, 2025
Health

With dangerously high temperatures expected throughout the weekend, City of Minneapolis officials are urging residents and community members to take steps now to protect their families and pets from extreme heat.

The extreme heat warning begins at noon on Saturday and goes through Sunday at 9 p.m. Heat-related illness happens when the body can’t cool itself properly. Older adults, small children, people with underlying medical conditions, and pets are at greatest risk.  

“We want everyone to take this heat seriously,” said Rachel Sayre, Director of the Minneapolis Emergency Management Department. “The heat can be just as dangerous as severe storms or snow emergencies. Don’t wait, the time is now to start preparing for this weekend’s extreme heat, especially if you are planning to work, play, or spend time outside.”   

Protecting community members 

The City works closely with state, county, and other partners to help community members prepare for extreme heat. It also coordinates with agencies that serve vulnerable populations.  

“We all need to look out for each other during extreme heat,” said Toni Hauser, Minneapolis Emergency Preparedness Manager for the Health Department. “Check in on friends, neighbors, older adults, loved ones, and pets this weekend. Taking just a few minutes to check in could save someone’s life.”   

Prepare for the heat 

  • Signs of heat-related illness: Anyone experiencing signs of heat-related illness like nausea, headache, dizziness, muscle cramps or weakness, heavy sweating, and disorientation, should seek medical assistance.  
  • Stay hydrated: Drink more water than usual and don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, or sugary drinks.  
  • Stay informed: Download the free Heat Safety app for Android or iOS to get information based on your location. 
  • Dress appropriately: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, and lightweight clothing to keep cool.  
  • Check in on family, older adults, and neighbors, especially those who live alone or might be sick. 
  • Limit outdoor activity: Everyone should limit their outdoor activity this weekend. People can get sick from the heat if they participate in physical activities during hot weather, especially during the hottest part of the day – the afternoon. If people must be outside, they should: 
    • Limit activity to morning and evening hours. 
    • Pace their activity and take frequent breaks in the shade. 
    • Drink plenty of fluids. 
    • Wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.  

Outdoor workers can find more information on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) website. 

  • Don’t rely on fans: Fans may seem to provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Using wet cloths, showers or baths, or a spray of mist on exposed skin can help cool the body temperature.

Protecting pets 

Pets are just as vulnerable as people in the heat. Minneapolis Animal Care & Control urges pet owners to take extra precautions to protect their animals. Keep pets safe and healthy: 

  • Keep them indoors and out of direct sunlight. 
  • Ensure they have access to plenty of clean, cool water. 
  • Never leave them unattended in a parked car. Even with windows cracked, temperatures inside a car can exceed 120 degrees in just a few minutes. A pet can quickly suffer brain damage or die from heat-related illnesses. 
  • Avoid walking on hot pavement. 
  • Limit outdoor exercise or playtime. 
  • Take extra care with older pets and short-nosed dogs. 

Look for common signs of heat stress in animals, such as heavy panting, glazed eyes, and difficulty breathing, among others. If you see a pet showing signs of heat stress, call 911. 

Learn more about staying cool in extreme heat.

Share