Heat Awareness

Stay Safe in Extreme Heat

• Stay hydrated - drink plenty of water even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.

• Limit your activities - avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day and take regular breaks.

• Dress for the weather - don't wear constricting clothing, consider wearing a hat and sunglasses.

• Check on others who are vulnerable - in particular, children, older adults, and those with medical conditions.

Response for Heat Illnesses

• Heat cramps: get out of the elements, drink water or sports drinks, and avoid strenuous activity.

• Heat exhaustion: move to a cooler place, loosen clothing, drink small sips of water, and use a cool cloth or ice packs.

• Heat stroke: call 911, move to a cooler place and begin lowering the body temperature, do not give fluids if the person is unconscious.

Seek medical attention and/or call 911 if symptoms worsen or do not improve within an hour or so.

5 Tips to Stay Safe Outdoors in Extreme Heat (article from the NC State College of Natural Resources, June 2025)

Map Tools

NC weather map

NC heat index