The National Weather Service is predicting record high temperatures this weekend, with the heat index reaching 107 degrees Sunday and Monday, leading Baltimore County to issue a warning to residents with advice on how to keep cool.
The heat wave has already started, with today's heat index at 102 degrees. The rest of the week will be no cool down, with next Friday, July 29, still predicted to reach 90 degrees. The Baltimore County Police Department recommends staying indoors or at one of the county's designated "cooling centers," and following hot weather tips posted on the Baltimore County website.
"We do spend a lot of time reminding people that this kind of heat can be deadly," said Elise Armacost, director of public affairs for the Baltimore County Police Department.
Those most at risk during a heat wave are children, pets, workers who spend a majority of their times outdoors, and the elderly, according to Armacost. For children and pets, the biggest threat is being left or forgotten in a hot car.
"Sadly, we see tragedies like that every year," Armacost said.
Last year, Maryland saw six deaths from heat-related illnesses; when temperatures reached triple digits in 2012, Maryland saw 46 deaths from such heat-related illnesses as dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
The county's "cooling centers" include any Baltimore County Public Library or county senior center.
"We have a display of ice cream and smoothie recipe books so people can stay cool at home, too," said Tyler Wolfe, branch manager of the Towson Library.
Baltimore County's 19 library branches will be open Monday–Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Wolfe said the library has a full week of scheduled story times for children of all ages, and a book club meeting Thursday night for adults.
At the senior centers, people of all ages are welcome to use the lounge areas, said Baltimore County Department of Aging Director Joanne Williams.
As for other hot weather tips, Baltimore County officials recommend:
•Never leaving a child or pet in an unattended car.
•Checking on elderly or chronically ill family members, friends and neighbors to make sure they are OK.
•Staying hydrated with water or fruit juices.
•Keeping your home cool by preparing foods that require minimal cooking.
•Wearing loose-fitting clothing, a hat and sunglasses when outdoors.
•Using sunscreen and reapplying often when spending time in the pool or sweating excessively.
County officials also recommend taking time to prepare or reevaluate an emergency preparedness kit and stocking in enough water to last at least three days, along with a flashlight and a battery-powered radio. They also encourage pet owners to ensure that animals are provided with plenty of water and appropriate shelter.
To keep cool inside the house and reduce electricity use, BGE recommends turning of excess lights, keeping the shades closed and using heat-producing appliances in the evening.
More information about cooling centers and hot weather tips can be found online at www.baltimorecountymd.gov