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Due to extremely high temperatures and humidity forecast for today and expected to continue through this weekend, the Charles County Department of Emergency Services is urging all citizens to cancel or reschedule any planned outdoor activities, especially those involving children or the elderly. There is an increased risk of heat exhaustion or other heat-related illness for those spending time outdoors for an extended period or those without air-conditioning.

All citizens should use extra care to avoid heat-related illness over the next several
days. Infants and young children, people age 65 and older; overweight people;
people who over-exert during work or exercise; and people who are ill or on certain medications are most at risk for heat-related illness.

Even short periods of high temperatures can cause serious health problems. Doing
too much on a hot day, spending too much time in the sun or staying too long in an overheated place can cause heat-related illnesses.

An Excessive Heat Warning issued by the National Weather Service remains in
effect until 9 p.m. this evening, but further advisories are expected to be issued
throughout the weekend due to prolonged periods of high temperatures. Heat
index values are expected to reach between 110 and 115 degree this afternoon and up to 110 degrees again Saturday afternoon.

During this heat wave, citizens are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an
air-conditioned area, stay out of the sun, and check in on relatives and neighbors.
   
Citizens are encouraged to be aware of the symptoms for heat exhaustion and heat stroke:
  
Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:  Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps,
tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, or fainting. People
experiencing these symptoms should be moved to a shady or air-conditioned
area. Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet clothes or towels.
Have person sip on a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes. If the person
refuses water, vomits or loses consciousness, call 9-1-1 or the local emergency
number.

Heat Stroke Symptoms:   body temperature of 103 degrees or higher, red, hot and
dry skin with no sweating, rapid pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion,
unconsciousness, and gray skin color. Heat Stroke Heat stroke is a lifethreatening
situation. Call 9-1-1 immediately.Before medical help arrives, begin
cooling the person by any means possible, such as spraying person with water
from a garden hose or by placing the person in a cool tub of water.