Dr. Wen Urges 10 Heat Precautions as U.S. Faces 100-Degree July Fourth Weekend
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Jul 2
Dr. Wen Urges 10 Heat Precautions as U.S. Faces 100-Degree July Fourth Weekend
3 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Jul 2
Summary
Temperatures above 100 degrees are forecast across many U.S. areas over the July Fourth weekend, prompting Dr. Wen to outline 10 steps to reduce heat-related illness.
Top advice centers on staying in air-conditioned spaces, limiting outdoor exposure, drinking water regularly and watching for dizziness, confusion or loss of consciousness that can signal heat stroke.
Higher-risk groups include older adults, young children and people on some blood pressure or psychiatric medications; Wen also warns never to leave children or pets in parked cars, where deadly heat can build within 10 minutes.
Holiday-specific risks extend beyond heat itself: swimmers should avoid unfamiliar or unsupervised water after France's recent heat wave saw at least 40 drownings, and picnic food should not sit out for more than an hour.
Wen also advises scaling back outdoor exercise, checking on vulnerable neighbors and offering water or cool shelter so the holiday can be celebrated more safely during the prolonged heat wave.