Triple-digit temperatures combined with poor air conditions prompt health cautions.

Los Angeles County Public Health officials are issuing duel warnings to Santa Clarita residents.

The intense triple-digit heat poses a risk of illness, while poor air quality conditions can pose a threat to those with asthma or other breathing problems.

In dealing with the heat, residents should be proactive and aware of the risks.

“While people don’t need to be told it’s hot outside, they do need to be reminded how to take care of themselves, children, the elderly, and their pets when the weather gets hotter,” said Jonathan E. Fielding, MD, MPH, Director of Public Health and Health Officer. “When temperatures are high, prolonged sun exposure may cause dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

For the most sensitive groups he continued; “Never leave children, elderly people, or pets unattended in closed vehicles, even with the windows ‘cracked,’ because temperatures
inside can quickly rise to life-threatening levels.”

If an outdoor activity is in your plans, be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or sports drinks.

Several tips for beating the heat include:

• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
• Drink water or sports drinks often (do not wait until you are thirsty), and avoid drinking alcohol.
• Offer help to those in your neighborhood with limited access to air conditioning and transportation, such as seniors or those who are ill. Check on them frequently or take them to a location with air conditioning.
• During peak heat hours stay in an air-conditioned area. If you don’t have access to air conditioning in your home, visit public facilities such as shopping malls, parks, and libraries to stay cool.
• Avoid unnecessary exertion, such as vigorous exercise during peak sun hours, if you are outside or in a non-air conditioned building.
• Stay out of the sun if you do not need to be in it. When in the sun, wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim, and loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from sun damage.

Adding to the heat will be poor air quality conditions. According to the South Coast Air Quality Management District, air quality will be unhealthy for sensitive individuals in the Santa Clarita Valley today.

For more information on these warnings, visit http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov.