Listen to this note:
California's hot season is here and Californians will face increased risks from wildfires, wildfire smoke, heat, power outages and dangerous water conditions, in addition to health risks such as heat stroke and dehydration. , before this, ?Ready California? launches an information campaign to reduce risks.
The Ready California campaign's summer safety package is a comprehensive set of preparedness messages and multimedia materials primarily aimed at vulnerable communities, said Regina Brown Wilson, executive director of California Black Media, during a briefing held today. by Ethnic Media Services.
And the hot season also has a very strong impact on health; High temperatures are expected for the month of July, August and September, so it is necessary to share basic information for the most vulnerable communities, Wilson added.
David Lawrence, a meteorologist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, commented that temperatures can reach 100 or 115 degrees, while at night they will only drop to 80 degrees, which will not represent a relief for residents who do not have air conditioning.
Dr. Rita Nguyen, deputy health officer for the State of California and director of Population Health for the California Department of Public Health, commented that anyone can be a victim of heat stroke.
"Heat waves are worrying because this climate generates more deaths, puts at risk people who work on the street, in unventilated offices or in homes without air conditioning," said Nguyen.
In turn, he mentioned that it is necessary to pay attention to heat stroke and call 911 if necessary, because when the temperature rises, people increase the chances of suffering brain damage, heart attacks, dehydration, dizziness and irritability.
He added that to prevent the risks generated by high temperatures, it is necessary to pay attention to hydration, avoiding sugary drinks, staying in cool places and, above all, staying informed and attentive to the safety alerts issued by the government.
In the case of agricultural employees, he explained that they have the right to rest, shade, medical care and fluids to stay hydrated, all offered by their employers.
Charlene Gioriani, senior safety engineer for the CalOSHA program of the Department of Industrial Relations, explained that workers' rights must be respected, so the weather must be monitored at all times, since providing them with shade and keeping them hydrated is their responsibility.
Another important issue to consider is keeping workers informed about diseases and symptoms, in this way human losses or serious situations can be avoided.
In this regard, he commented that paying attention to the most vulnerable people is necessary, such as the elderly, children, babies and sick people who are not capable of taking care of themselves.
Access to shade for temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit must be available on work days and when temperatures reach 95 degrees or higher, 10-minute breaks must be provided.
Likewise, a protocol for heat illnesses must be established to be able to act quickly and effectively, he said.
He explained that working hours must be adjusted to the climate, where workers are not so affected.
Andrew Ramos, captain of the Sacramento city fire department, explained that they are trained and qualified to be able to face the expected climate risks.
In addition, he commented that the most important thing is to take precautions when going out in search of spaces where there is water to spend the day; In addition to this, you must have life jackets at all times and keep an eye on your loved ones, providing them with support in case of risk.
As community support, he explained, firefighters face floods and fires.
In the event of a flood emergency, residents should call 911 and act quickly, as this will make the difference; Sometimes support can be provided among neighbors or acquaintances. If this is the case, it is important to call to report the incident and subsequently provide the necessary support.
He also mentioned that fires are constant this season, so he recommends staying alert for any warning.
Sonya Harris, principal advisor of Listos California, commented that the campaigns being carried out have the purpose of preparing more people, so that all resources reach young and old.
An invitation is made to enter readycalifornia.org/alerts and readycalifornia.org/ resources.
The material that can be found has images aimed at people of various ages, they are clear and have a concise message, thought out and designed so that the community remains informed, prepared and alert.
You may be interested in: Tips for staying cool in the predicted heat wave for the Inner Bay Area
