Summer Safety

Whether you’re hitting the pool, hiking trails, or enjoying a backyard BBQ, stay safe by staying prepared. Hydrate often, wear sunscreen, and know the signs of heat-related illness. Keep emergency contacts handy and always supervise kids near water. A little caution goes a long way toward a fun and safe summer!

Extreme Heat Watch vs Extreme Heat Warning

An Extreme Heat Watch is issued when dangerous heat is possible. Reschedule outdoor activities in the coming days. Make sure that children, the elderly, and pets have a place to cool off during the heat.

An Extreme Heat Warning is issued when dangerous heat is happening or about to happen. Avoid heavy activity and direct sunlight. Stay hydrated, find a cool indoor place, and check on children, elderly and pets.

Health risks associated with extreme heat can include:

• Heat cramps — This includes muscular pain and spasms resulting from heavy exertion. These symptoms are often the first signal that the body is suffering from excessive heat.
• Heat exhaustion — This includes fainting, rash, fatigue and nausea. Skin may become clammy and moist.
• Heat/sun stroke symptoms — These include hot, dry skin, the absence of sweat, nausea, confusion and unconsciousness. This is a life-threatening condition. Seek medical care immediately.

If heat risks do occur, cool the body as soon as possible, and call 911 for symptoms of heat stroke.

cooling centers & shelters

Louisville Metro Government has several places to beat the heat. To see several publicly available locations with A/C and pools/splashpads click here.

Hot Cars

Never leave children or pets in a hot car because temperatures inside a parked vehicle can soar past 120°F within minutes, causing heatstroke or even death. Even on mild days, a car acts like a greenhouse, making it dangerously unsafe long before help can arrive.

Pet Safety

Extreme heat can have adverse effects on animals, and Louisville Metro Animal Services, LMAS, asks residents to limit outdoor time for pets. Residents are urged to call 911 if they see animals in distress that have been left in parked vehicles. When animals are outdoors, people are asked to provide shade and plenty of water.