FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — With potential triple-digit temperatures forecast for next week, the American Red Cross Central California Region is urging residents to take precautions to stay safe during extreme heat.<\/p>\n
The organization says preparing ahead of time can help people protect their health as the hottest stretch of weather approaches.<\/p>\n
Eddie Zamora, a Red Cross volunteer, summarized the guidance: “Stay hydrated. Stay cool. And stay connected.”<\/p>\n
Staying connected, volunteers say, is especially important for people who are more vulnerable during extreme heat. Zamora encouraged residents to check in on neighbors and loved ones who may be at higher risk.<\/p>\n
“People that work in agriculture, for instance, who work outdoors, athletes, students who are outside, and also older adults. Those are people that we can definitely check in on,” Zamora said.<\/p>\n
The Red Cross says checking in can be as simple as knocking on a door, making a phone call or sending a text to ensure someone is doing well and taking precautions.<\/p>\n
The organization also recommends limiting time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day and drinking a cup of water every 20 minutes to stay hydrated.<\/p>\n
Lucca Lorenzi, a Red Cross communications volunteer, said paying attention to physical signs can also help prevent dehydration.<\/p>\n
“Additionally, it’s important to check your urine color. This is also another important indicator of dehydration. If you have darker urine, this is probably a sign that you should probably be taking in more water,” Lorenzi said.<\/p>\n
Pet owners are also urged to take extra care during extreme heat. The Red Cross encourages walking pets during cooler parts of the day to avoid hot pavement that can burn their paws.<\/p>\n
“You can place ice cubes in the water bowl. You can also make sure that you’re not leaving your pets in the car — that’s a big one,” Zamora said.<\/p>\n
In addition, the Red Cross advises families to plan ahead for possible power outages by keeping coolers on hand to store beverages and food. Residents are also encouraged to take advantage of neighborhood resources that offer free air conditioning.<\/p>\n
“For instance, libraries, malls or checking online, but the City of Fresno’s cooling centers to see if there’s any open and any nearby,” Lorenzi said.<\/p>\n
The American Red Cross says taking small steps now can make a significant difference in staying safe as extreme heat moves into the Central Valley.<\/p>\n
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