Heat Advisory Is In Effect Until 8 p.m.

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Release: Fairfax County Emergency Information

Fairfax County has announced that a heat advisory is in effect from until 8 p.m. Friday. The National Weather Service issues a heat advisory when the heat index value is expected to reach 105 to 109 degrees within the next 12 to 24 hours.

As we start feeling the heat of summer — which doesn’t even officially begin until June 21 — remember these tips to stay cool and safe:

• Slow down. Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day. Individuals at risk should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.
• Dress for summer. Lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.
• Foods (like proteins) that increase metabolic heat production also increase water loss.
• Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic fluids. Your body needs water to keep cool. Drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Do not drink alcoholic beverages.
• Spend more time in air-conditioned places. Air conditioning in homes and other buildings markedly reduces danger from the heat.
• If you cannot afford an air conditioner, spending some time each day (during hot weather) in an air conditioned environment affords some protection. Several Fairfax County buildings serve as cooling centers where you can get a respite from the heat.
• Don’t get too much sun. Sunburn makes the job of heat dissipation that much more difficult.
• Don’t leave children or pets in cars - One of the most important things to remember … Never leave anyone, especially children and pets, in a closed, parked vehicle.

According to the National Weather Service, studies show that the temperature inside a parked vehicle can rapidly rise to a dangerous level for children, pets and even adults.

Leaving the windows slightly open does not significantly decrease the heating rate. The effects can be more severe on children because their bodies have not developed the ability to efficiently regulate its internal temperature.