The Coachella Valley will be under an excessive heat watch through Labor Day Weekend

• WHAT…Dangerously hot weather. Highs in the lower deserts from 112 to 120. Highs in the high deserts from 104 to 112. Highs in the inland valleys and the Inland Empire from 100 to 115, and highs the mountains below 5,000 feet from 95 to 105.
• WHERE…All of Southern California.
• WHEN…From 10 AM Friday to 8 PM PDT Monday.
• IMPACTS…Extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.

To protect yourself, please see the tips below from Riverside County:

Drink plenty of water

Avoid alcohol and caffeine

Turn on your air conditioner

Stay in air-conditioned space at home, or someplace cool

Schedule outside activities before noon or in the evening

Avoid or minimize physical exertion

Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose clothing

Wear a wide-brimmed hat, or use an umbrella for shade

Slow down—rest in the shade or a cool place every chance you get.

If you do not have an air conditioner, use a fan

Do not eat heavy meals. Avoid cooking with your oven.

Take a cool shower or bath

Do not sit in a hot car, even for a short time. Never leave a person or animal alone in a vehicle during high temperatures

Check on your friends and neighbors who are elderly or have medical conditions

Older individuals are at higher risk for problems when it’s very hot. You are also at high risk if you:

Have certain medical conditions

Take medicine for high blood pressure

Have mental health conditions

Have been drinking alcohol

Use IV drugs

Have had a previous heat-related illness

Save Energy Costs

Set thermostat at 78 degrees or higher. You save 3-5 percent on your air conditioning cost for each degree you raise the thermostat.

Replace filters often, even in the summer.

Keep your air conditioning duct vents clean and clear. Make sure furniture or drapes are not blocking air vents or keeping cool air from circulating freely.

Replace light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL’S) CFLs use about ¼ as much electricity and last ten times longer than incandescent bulbs.

Turn off air and open windows for a cross breeze on cooler evenings.

Keep lights off or turned down.

Get your home weatherized