JOINT PRESS RELEASE

LAKE COUNTY HEALTH SERVICES

AND

LAKE COUNTY AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT

Dateline:                             July 8, 2008 ... Lakeport, CA

Contact Name:               Karen Tait, MD, Health Officer

Contact Phone:               707/263-1090

Contact Name:               Bob Reynolds or Doug Gearhart

                                          Lake County Air Quality Management District

Contact Phone:               707/263-7000

Lakeport –

Arrival of Hot Summer Weather: What to do to stay healthy

              Predictions of hot weather this week prompt local officials to remind area residents of steps they can take to reduce the risk of heat-related illness.   

              Despite predictions of daytime local temperatures that could reach as high as 110 degrees over the next several days, there is no cause for alarm.   Night-time cooling into the 60’s helps to avoid conditions that could otherwise lead to extreme heat emergencies.  Nonetheless, the National Weather Service has issued an “Excessive Heat Warning,” reinforcing the importance of taking basic precautions, particularly those who are most susceptible to heat-related illness.  Vulnerable populations include:

• Infants and young children
• People aged 65 or older
• People who are taking certain prescribed or over-the-counter medications 

including some medications that treat mental illness, allergies, fluid retention, and others

• Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure

Lake County Public Health Officer, Dr. Karen Tait, notes that many of the same people who have been advised to take precautions related to recent reductions in air quality from wildfire activity are also susceptible to heat-related illness.   As a result, it makes sense for them to be extra careful when both hot weather and reduced air quality are present.    Recent air quality readings in Lake County had improved from the initial heavy smoke of numerous wildfires but continued to have higher than normal levels of Particulate Matter, which can increase the burden experienced by sensitive individuals.   According to Lake County Air Pollution Control Officer, Bob Reynolds, “Northwest to Northeast winds are expected and we expect to see air quality that is “unhealthy for sensitive groups by tomorrow.” 

Steps to take include:

• Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours
• Drink plenty of fluids (non-alcoholic).  Avoid caffeinated beverages and heavy meals.
• Rest in shady areas; wear wide-brimmed hats; use sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher (also use mosquito protection to guard against West Nile Virus)
• Visit air-conditioned public buildings, such as libraries, grocery and other stores if you need a break from the heat.    
• Develop a “buddy system” to check on co-workers, friends, and neighbors with special needs. 
• Do not leave children or pets in cars

Symptoms of heat-related illness range from heavy sweating (or no sweating at all, in the advanced stages), to weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting and fainting.  It is important to seek medical help for symptoms that don’t quickly go away with rest and drinking fluids.  

              The Moose Lodge in Clearlake Oaks notified Health Services that it is available to the public as a cooling center between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.