California tackles extreme heat conditions and workers’ safety
IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services held an important meeting as California is expected to go into phase two of its extreme temperature response plan.
The meeting shared how extreme heat can impact public health and how to avoid being heat deprived, including workers' safety in outdoor conditions.
Employers with outdoor workers must take the following steps in order to avoid heat illness:
- Water: Provide clean, cool, and free water so that each worker can drink at least one quart of water per hour and encourage workers to stay hydrated.
- Breaks: Encourage workers to take short breaks of at least five minutes to cool down and prevent heat illness.
- Shade: Must be available at any temperature, and shade structure must be up when temperatures reach or exceed 80 degrees.
- Emergency procedures: Written procedures and what to do if a worker gets sick. Employees should know how to recognize heat illness symptoms and be trained on emergency procedures.
The Imperial Valley is already expected to reach dangerously high temperatures this weekend.
Imperial County Public Health Leaders urge residents to avoid being outside if possible from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
“If you do have to go outdoors make sure you're watching yourself. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water. Make sure you’re staying hydrated, don't wait 'til you're thirsty to drink before you go out. Stay hydrated throughout the day and watch out for signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion not only on yourself but the people around you," said David Creiglow, Imperial County Disaster Preparedness Manager.
Fire safety is another big concern to look out for during these heat conditions as field fires are common in the county.
It’s always important to also look out for your loved ones and surroundings.
Cooling centers are available throughout Imperial County, you can go to this website for more information.
