PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — With temperatures nearing 100 degrees over the holiday weekend, Calvert County is warning residents to take precautions for themselves and their pets.
The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for Calvert County on July 2 and 3, Thursday and Friday, of this week. Calvert officials provided The BayNet with a press release outlining ways residents can prepare.
Additionally, there is an active animal safety alert from the Department of Public Safety from Wednesday, July 1, through Monday, July 6. During this time, animal owners and custodians are required to provide “appropriate protections” from the weather for animals, including adequate shelter, water, space and access to shade. Failure to comply with animal safety measures may result in penalties, including fines of up to $1,000 or 30 days in jail.
To report animal safety concerns, residents may contact the Animal Control Division at 410-535-1600, ext. 2526, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. After hours, concerns may be reported to the nonemergency line at 410-535-3491.
Here’s what residents can do to keep themselves and animals safe while the heat lasts:
- Stay hydrated with water and avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine.
- Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible and limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. If you are outdoors, wear sunscreen and seek shade.
- Check on older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions, and vulnerable neighbors.
- Know the signs of heat-related illness. Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache and weakness. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and residents should call 911 immediately.
- Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles, even with the windows down.
- Provide pets with fresh water and shade or bring them indoors during periods of extreme heat. Limit walks to cooler morning or evening hours and avoid hot pavement that can burn paws.
Animals are sensitive to heatstroke, especially older animals, younger animals, thick-coated breeds and brachycephalic dog breeds with short noses. If you suspect heatstroke, move the animal to a cooler area and use a fan to aid cooling. Offer small amounts of cool water and contact a veterinarian immediately.
Visit the Calvert County website for more information on heat safety and to sign up for alerts.
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