Maryland is facing a dangerous, multi-day heat wave that runs straight through the July 4th holiday.
Governor Wes Moore has declared a State of Preparedness, with the heat index expected to climb to 105 to 110 degrees, and as high as 115 in some areas, from Wednesday through the weekend.
Here's how to protect yourself and the people around you:
Drink water and electrolyte drinks before you feel thirsty
Watch for early warning signs: swelling, dehydration, heavy sweating
Limit caffeine and alcohol, both dehydrate you faster
Check on older adults, people with chronic illness, and anyone without reliable AC
"Once heat stroke sets in, it affects every single organ in our body. The best way to treat it is to prevent it altogether," said Dr. Cheyenne Falat, Assistant Medical Director of the Adult Emergency Department at the University of Maryland Medical Center, in an interview with
@WJZ.
If you don't have reliable AC, head to your nearest cooling center before the heat index hits 105. Full list:
health.maryland.gov/prepared…
#HeatSafety