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Hot Weather Tips for Keeping Cool

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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. Learn more about extreme heat.

Find tips and resources to beat the heat below.

Tips

Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids like water, even if you’re not thirsty
Wear light-weight, loose-fitting clothing
Stay cool by staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day
Schedule outdoor activities carefully and wear sunscreen
If you exercise outdoors, go in the morning or evening hours
Eat light, regular meals — avoid hot foods and heavy meals
Never leave anyone — infants, children, or pets — in a parked car
Know the signs of heat-related illness — these include:
- An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
- Red, hot and dry skin (no sweating)
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Throbbing headache

Power Outages and Avoiding "Brownouts"

Heat waves increase electricity demand and can result in voltage reductions or “brownouts.” Take steps to conserve energy during periods of unusually high demand. Read tips on conserving power, both at home and in the office. Anything we can do to reduce electric consumption helps us — and everyone in the region — avoid power interruptions. Find additional ways to reduce power demands.
Report & Check Outages using Dominion Energy’s site
In the event of an outage, practice food safety and know When to Save It and When to Throw It Out

Cool Spots Around Arlington

Visit free places throughout the County to keep cool:

Cooling Assistance & Temporary Shelter

Cooling Assistance: Arlington County can provide heating and cooling assistance to those that qualify. Learn more about the assistance program. Find application info below.

Ways to Apply:

In-person at Arlington County DHS, located at 2100 Washington Boulevard, 1st Floor, Arlington, VA 22204
By phone: 703-228-1350 (an application mailed to you)
Completed applications can be faxed to 703-228-1011 or emailed to bjordan@arlingtonva.us

For Temporary Shelter (if unhoused): Call 703-228-1010

Tips for At-Risk Groups: Children, Teens, & Seniors

Pet Safety

Learn how to keep your furry family members safe during hot weather.

County Programs & Status

Summer Camp Programming: In the event of cancellations, early closings, or relocations, summer camp program participants will be notified directly via email and phone call or text.