Heat Alert Issued for Encino-Tarzana

With triple-digit temperatures forecast over the coming week, the county Department of Public Health declared a heat alert for the San Fernando and eastern San Gabriel valleys today, urging people to take precautions against the hot weather.

“When temperatures are high, even a few hours of exertion may cause severe dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” interim health officer Dr. Jeffrey Gunzenhauser said. “Others who are frail or have chronic health conditions may develop serious health problems leading to death if they are exposed to high temperatures over several days.”

County officials urged people to take precautions such as drinking plenty of cool water, avoiding sweetened drinks, caffeine and alcohol and taking advantage of cooling centers to escape the heat. A list of cooling centers is available online at www.publichealth.lacounty.gov.

Officials also warned people never to leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.

City News Service; Photo: Los Angeles County Fire Department