FEMA has shared a toolkit with state, local, tribal and territorial agencies to support them ahead of Independence Day weekend. This toolkit includes messages, graphics and resources to help them spread the word about the dangers of extreme heat and how communities can prepare.
“Communities across the country are bracing for extreme heat and, as always, FEMA stands ready to support them,” said Bob Fenton, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the FEMA Administrator. “The resources we shared today will help our state and local partners share critical, life-saving information with the American public. This is an historic Independence Day, and we want everyone to know how to celebrate safely.”
FEMA urges everyone who plans to spend time outside in extreme heat to take simple steps to stay safe:
- Monitor the weather. Make sure you check the weather before heading out. You can find forecast on the National Weather Service page, follow guidance from local officials and news outlets and download the free FEMA App for weather alerts and warnings.
- Learn to recognize the signs of heat illnesses and ways to respond. While heat cramps and heat exhaustion are serious, heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
- Make an extreme heat plan for your household, including your pets, so that you and your family know what to do, where to go and what you will need to protect yourselves from extreme heat.
- Protect yourself during extreme heat. There are quick and low-cost ways to protect everyone in your household including staying hydrated, dressing for hot weather, avoiding high-energy activity and taking cool showers or baths.
To learn more about how to stay safe during extreme heat, visit Ready.gov/Summer-Ready and Ready.gov/Heat.
The original announcement can be found here.
