HYATTSVILLE, MD – High temperatures and humidity are anticipated for the area today, Wednesday, August 11^th through Friday, August 13^th. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an excessive heat advisory today, Wednesday, August 11^th from 12:00 pm through 8:00 pm and an excessive heat watch on Thursday, August 12^th. The Prince George’s County Office of Homeland Security/Office of Emergency Management reminds residents to take precautions to avoid heat related illnesses.

• Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration; even if you do not feel thirsty.  A recommended amount of one and a half a quart of fluid will suffice in the avoidance of fluid deficiency. Avoid drinks  with alcohol, sugar, and caffeine. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
• Limit outdoor activities during excessive heat. If you must be out during the hottest part of the day, be sure to wear light weight and light-colored clothing and a hat to minimize the potential for heat exhaustion.
• Never leave children, senior citizens, or pets alone in closed vehicles. Temperatures in parked cars can reach an estimate of 130 degrees within minutes, resulting in brain damage or death.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone. More specifically, senior citizens, families with young children, people with special needs, or individuals living alone to ensure their safety and hydration.
• Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. 
• Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power during periods of extreme heat. Stay on the lowest floor and out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
• Register for Alert Prince George’s at alert.mypgc.us to receive emergency information, via your mobile or landline phones, including severe weather alerts from the National Weather Service and emergency information from the Prince George’s County Office of Homeland Security/Office of Emergency Management.

While we encourage residents to remain indoors, residents can utilize their local Maryland-National Capitol Park and Planning Commission’s recreational facilities as well as libraries, shopping centers, and malls to keep cool.  

For a complete list of recreational facilities and libraries, visit: 

https://www.pgparks.com/4497/Community-Centers

https://www.pgcmls.info/map-of-branches 

For additional information, please contact the Prince George’s County Office of Homeland Security, at 301-324-4400. Please remember to utilize 9-1-1 for health-related emergencies regarding excessive heat.