The Santa Clarita Valley is under a Heat Alert by the Los Angeles County Health Officer for Sunday, August 27 through Wednesday, August 30.

With temperatures forecasted to rise to 105 degrees on Sunday, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s and Fire Departments are on high alert.

“When temperatures are as high as they will be in the next few days, even a few hours of exertion may cause severe dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke,”  said Jeffrey Gunzenhauser, MD, MPH, Interim Health Officer, Los Angeles County in a statement released on Sunday morning. “Others who are frail or have chronic health conditions may develop serious health problems leading to death if they are exposed to high temperatures over several days.”

The advisory warns against leaving children, elderly people, and pets unattended in places or vehicles with no air conditioning.

For those who must work or exercise outdoors, the advisory gives the following suggestions:

• Ensure that cool drinking water is available.
• Drink water or electrolyte-replacing sports drinks often; do not wait until you are thirsty.
• Avoid drinking sweetened drinks, caffeine, and alcohol.
• Avoid drinking extremely cold water as this is more likely to cause cramps.
• Allow athletes or outdoor workers to take frequent rests.
• Pay attention to signs of dehydration which include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, headaches, muscle cramps, and increased thirst. Individuals with these symptoms should be moved to a cooler, shaded place, and given water or sport drinks. More severe signs of heat- related illness may include diminished judgment, disorientation, pale and clammy skin, a rapid and weak pulse, and/or fast and shallow breathing.
• Coaches, teachers, and employers should seek immediate medical attention for those exhibiting signs of heat-related illness.
• Avoid unnecessary exertion, such as vigorous exercise during peak sun hours, if you are outside or in a non-air conditioned building.

Cooling Centers

The L.A. County’s Emergency Survival Program has set up the following cooling centers throughout the Santa Clarita Valley:

Santa Clarita Old Town Public Library
24500 Main Street
Newhall, CA 91321
(661) 259-0750

Santa Clarita Public Library (Canyon Country)
18601 Soledad Canyon Road
Canyon Country, CA 91351
(661) 250-3301

Santa Clarita Public Library
23743 West Valencia Blvd.
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
(661) 259-8332

SCV Senior Center
22900 Market Street
Newhall, CA 91321
(661) 259-9444

Acton Agua Dulce Library
33792 Crown Valley Rd.
Acton, CA 93510
(661) 269-7101

 

It is advised that you call in advance to ensure there is available seating.