There is hot, and then there is hot! Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death. Extreme heat is responsible for the highest number of annual deaths among all weather-related hazards.

Older adults, children and sick or overweight individuals are at greater risk from extreme heat.

Humidity increases the feeling of heat.

Prepare for Extreme Heat

• Learn to recognize the signs of heat illness.
• Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device. Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort, but do not reduce body temperature or prevent heat-related illnesses. 
• Identify places in your community where you can go to get cool such as libraries and shopping malls or contact your local health department to find a cooling center in your area.
  • Check Out Edsel T Ford Center 10 Pitkin St, Highland Park, MI 48203
    • Hours
      • Monday 11AM–7PM
        Tuesday Closed
        Wednesday Closed
        Thursday 11AM–7PM
        Friday 8AM–4PM
        Saturday 8AM–5PM
        Sunday Closed 

• Cover windows with drapes or shades.
• Weather-strip doors and windows.
• Use window reflectors specifically designed to reflect heat back outside.
• Added insulation helps to keep the heat out.
• Use a powered attic ventilator, or attic fan, to regulate the heat level of a building’s attic by clearing out hot air.
• Install window air conditioners and insulate around them.

Be Safe DURING

• Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day.
• If air conditioning is not available in your home go to a cooling center.
• Take cool showers or baths.

• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Use your oven less to help reduce the temperature in your home.
• If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face. 
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors, during midday heat, if possible.
• Check on family members, seniors and neighbors.
• Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Consider pet safety. If they are outside, make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade. Asphalt and dark pavement can be very hot to your pet’s feet.
• If using a mask, use one that is made of breathable fabric, such as cotton, instead of polyester. Don’t wear a mask if you feel yourself overheating or have trouble breathing.

Heat-Related Illnesses

Know the signs of heat-related illnesses and ways to respond. If you are sick and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for advice and shelter in place if you can. If you are experiencing a medical emergency call 9-1-1.

Get more detailed information about heat-related illnesses from the CDC and National Weather Service.

HEAT STROKE

• Signs:
  • Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F) taken orally 
  • Red, hot and dry skin with no sweat
  • Rapid, strong pulse
  • Dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness

If you suspect heat stroke, call 9-1-1 or get the person to a hospital immediately. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives. Do not give the person anything to drink.

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HEAT CRAMPS

• Signs: Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms or legs

HEAT EXHAUSTION

• Signs: Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, fast or weak pulse, dizziness, headache, fainting, nausea, vomiting

 

If you have signs of heat cramps or heat exhaustion, go to a cooler location and cool down by removing excess clothing and taking sips of sports drinks or water. Call your healthcare provider if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.

Residents of Highland Park

There is a winter storm watch in effect from late Tuesday, February 1 night through Thursday, February 3 evening. The metro Detroit area will see a possible total snow accumulation of 8 to 16 inches. 

• Due to upcoming winter storm, we are asking that residents are mindful of safety and snow protocols and work together with the Police, Fire, & Public Works Department.
• The City of Highland Park will have salt and plow trucks out in the community to maintain the roads.
• Where able, Please Do Not Park On The Street, but in the driveways, garages, and lots. 
• All snow will be plowed to the north side of most residential streets.
• If you have to park on the street, please be mindful that you may be plowed in. 

Fire Safety

Please practice fire safety during this time. If at any time you experience a fire, please have a meeting point for your family. 

What To Do In Case of Power Outages

In the event of a power outage, here are some time on how to be prepared:

Before Power Outage

Check flashlights and battery-powered portable radios to ensure that they are working, and you have extra batteries. A radio is an important source for obtaining weather and emergency information during a storm. Remember to charge your devices (tip: you can use your car to charge your phone if you have the appropriate cords).