Photo courtesy of Seattle Parks & Recreation
In case you haven’t noticed, it is HOT!!! And getting hotter by the minute!
The Pacific Northwest is in the middle of an intense heat wave causing the National Weather Service to issue an Excessive Heat Warning for Seattle and surrounding areas through Friday night.
We want you to stay safe and cool! So, the City of Seattle has prepared resources and tips to help guide you through this heat wave.
Stay hydrated and check on vulnerable relatives and neighbors
- Drink plenty of water. Have a beverage like water with you at all times, and sip or drink frequently. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
- Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol and large amounts of sugar because they can cause de-hydration.
- Check on friends, family members and neighbors who may be elderly or have limited mobility to ensure they are staying cool and have access to drinking water.
Stay cool
The City of Seattle has compiled a list of cooling locations throughout the city. These locations include libraries, senior centers, and community centers equipped with air conditioning, as well as pools and water areas. Find a cooling center in your neighborhood using this map.
Protect your pets
Pets are especially vulnerable in high heat and the Seattle Animal Shelter recommends the following:
- Never leave your animal unattended in direct sunlight. Provide a shady area for retreat, such as a dog house, porch or shady tree, and always provide cool water.
- If you leave animals indoors, open screened windows, keep a fan running, provide plenty of water, and, if possible, leave them in a cool location.
- Never leave animals unattended in a vehicle. Animals do not perspire like humans; they cool themselves by panting. Seats in vehicles get hot under animals’ feet and prevent them from perspiring through their paws. Temperatures rise quickly leaving them trapped and unable to escape the heat.
- If you must travel with your pet, carry water. If a trip requires you to leave your pet in the car at any point, think about saving that for another day. It’s not worth the risk.
- Avoid overexerting your animal in hot weather. Exercise is fine when taken in moderation, but extreme heat conditions, obesity, old age, breed and underlying disease can predispose an animal to the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- For birds, take caution and place the bird’s cage away from direct sunlight during the intense heat of the afternoon. Provide water and fruits and vegetables with high moisture content.
Additional resources
