Campus Heat Advisory and Heat Safety

Dear Community, 

With dangerously high temperatures predicted this week, we want to share some basic information on heat safety. If you are participating in outdoor activities either on or off campus, please consider making adjustments to keep all of your community members safe. 

Temperatures are projected to be in the high nineties today and will feel warmer, possibly over 100 degrees. The National Weather Service provides a variety of resources on heat stroke and heat exhaustion. This Heat Safety worksheet also provides information and tips.

Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. Heat-related illnesses can occur with even a short period of exposure. Please keep in mind:

• Young children and infants are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness and death.

• It is never safe to leave a child, disabled person, or pet locked in a car. Do not allow children to play in cars where they could accidentally lock themselves inside. To learn how to prevent hot car deaths, see the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration webpage on heatstroke.

• Adults with pre-existing diseases, using certain medications, living alone, or with limited mobility who are exposed to extreme heat can experience multiple adverse effects.

• People with chronic medical conditions are more likely to have a serious health problem during a heat wave than healthy people. Pregnant women are also at higher risk.  

• Avoid strenuous exercise or work outdoors, avoid direct sunlight as much as possible, stay hydrated, and take regular breaks.

Please be safe and beat the heat. 

Paul Dillon, Chief of Police

Bruce Herman, Director, Health & Counseling

Michael Pound, Director, Environmental Safety & Health