Individuals are urged to take steps to prepare for any prolonged heat waves that might occur.

Prolonged exposure to extremely high temperatures can be very dangerous, especially for seniors and other vulnerable populations. During extreme heat, cooling off for just a few hours can prevent heat stress. If your home is not air conditioned or sufficiently cool on hot days, consider visiting a public place that is air conditioned such as a shopping center, or attend a movie or patronize another air conditioned business during the hottest part of the day.

Because drinking fluids is essential in avoiding heat exhaustion, heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses, it is strongly recommended that residents include plenty of drinking water as part of their emergency supply kits. A supply of portable radios and flashlights is also recommended. Heat waves can place a significant strain on the state’s power grid. A working radio and flashlight will provide access to emergency information and instructions, as well as light if power is disrupted due to an overload of the power grid.

As part of your emergency planning efforts, consider the needs of family members and neighbors who are elderly, have physical impairments or other special needs. Infants, small children, seniors, people with illnesses and those who are taking certain medications could be at additional risk for heat-related illnesses.

Here are a few suggestions to avoid heat-related illnesses:

• Avoid strenuous activity in the hottest part of the day between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and stay out of the sun if at all possible
• When you are outdoors, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat, sunglasses and using an umbrella
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, even if you don't feel thirsty
• Reduce the amount of caffeine and alcohol you drink, since these beverages can actually contribute to dehydration.
• Wear lightweight, loose clothing, preferably of a material that lets air get to your skin.
• Never leave infants, children, frail individuals, or pets unattended in a parked car
• A cool shower or bath will help keep body temperatures at a safer level

Symptoms of heat stroke include headache, dizziness, disorientation, agitation or confusion, hot dry skin that is flushed but not sweaty, and rapid heart beat. Heat stroke can be a life-threatening emergency and medical care should be sought if dehydration and heat exhaustion is suspected.

If an area Heat Emergency is declared, the City of Santa Clara has designated four municipal buildings as Cooling Centers. These public buildings are air conditioned and people can come inside to cool off. These buildings are available during normal business hours, which is usually in the hottest part of the day. Santa Clara's four designated Cooling Centers are:

• Santa Clara City Hall, 1500 Warburton Avenue, 615- 2220
  - Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Community Recreation Center, 969 Kiely Blvd., 615-3140
  - Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
  - Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  - Saturday 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
• Santa Clara Senior Center, 1303 Fremont Street, 615-3170
  - Monday-Thursday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  - Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  - Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Central Park Library, 2635 Homestead Rd., 615-2970
  - Monday-Tuesday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  - Wednesday 12 noon to 9 p.m.
  - Thursday - Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  - Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
  

Additional tips on preparing for heat-related emergencies are available on the California Department of Health Services and Office of Emergency Services web sites at bepreparedcalifornia.ca.gov/epo/ and www.oes.ca.gov.