Heat Wave Kills 3 In MD, Bringing This Year’s Total To 20

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MD — With last week's heat wave blanketing the state, three more heat-related deaths have been reported in Maryland, including two in Anne Arundel County. That brings the 2019 total of heat-related deaths to 20 so far.

A weekly health department report lists the victims as a man between the ages of 18 and 44 in Anne Arundel County, a man aged 65 or older in Anne Arundel County and a man aged 65 or older in Harford County. The younger Anne Arundel County victim’s death reportedly happened during the excessive heat wave that struck the state between July 17 and July 22. Last year, 28 people died due to excessive heat.

While cooler temperatures are forecast for the area as the season segues into fall, the state health department reminds residents to abide by the following guidelines when it's hot out:

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine and overly-sweetened beverages
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing
• Avoid direct sunlight and wear sunscreen; stay in the shade when possible
• Avoid salt tablets, unless advised to take them by a doctor
• Schedule physical activity in the morning or evening when it’s cooler and take short breaks if necessary