With dangerously high temperatures expected throughout the week of June 29, City of Minneapolis officials are urging residents and community members to take steps now to protect their families and pets from extreme heat.
Many of the extreme heat warnings extend through midnight, but higher temperatures are expected through the rest of the week. 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. “Extreme temperatures are just as much an emergency as a severe storm or a foot of snow. Now is the time to stay inside if you can, stay cool and look out for your neighbors and friends. These temperatures can be dangerous when they’re not taken seriously.”
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.
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.
- Have a plan: Know where you can go to stay cool, especially during the peak heat hours. Find a list of public buildings with air conditioning
- 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.
- Be “Minnesota Nice:” 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.
- Athletes and others who are active outside can find more information on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 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.
- Watch for severe storms: In the event storms pass through, have a plan for potential power outages when air conditioning may not be available.
Protecting pets
Pets are just as vulnerable as people in the heat. Minneapolis Animal Care & Control (MACC) 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.