Hot Weather Tips for Keeping Cool

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There is hot, and then there is hot! Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death. Extreme heat is responsible for the highest number of annual deaths among all weather-related hazards. Learn more about extreme heat.

Find tips and resources to beat the heat below.

Tips

  • Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids like water, even if you’re not thirsty
  • Wear light-weight, loose-fitting clothing
  • Stay cool by staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day
  • Schedule outdoor activities carefully and wear sunscreen
  • If you exercise outdoors, go in the morning or evening hours
  • Eat light, regular meals — avoid hot foods and heavy meals
  • Never leave anyone — infants, children, or pets — in a parked car
  • Know the signs of heat-related illness — these include:
    • An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
    • Red, hot and dry skin (no sweating)
    • Rapid, strong pulse
    • Throbbing headache

 

Power Outages and Avoiding "Brownouts"

 

Cool Spots Around Arlington

Visit free places throughout the County to keep cool:

Cooling Assistance & Temporary Shelter

Cooling Assistance: Arlington County can provide heating and cooling assistance to those that qualify. Learn more about the assistance program. Find application info below.

Ways to Apply:

  • In-person at  Arlington County DHS, located at 2100 Washington Boulevard, 1st Floor, Arlington, VA 22204
  • By phone: 703-228-1350 (an application mailed to you)
  • Completed applications can be faxed to 703-228-1011 or emailed to bjordan@arlingtonva.us

 

For Temporary Shelter (if unhoused): Call 703-228-1010

County Programs & Status

  • Summer Camp Programming: In the event of cancellations, early closings, or relocations, summer camp program participants will be notified directly via email and phone call or text.

 

Find more preparedness resources for extreme heat & other emergencies.