It is important to have a framework to manage a disaster and protect your health and safety. Power Outages during extreme heat are specifically concerning. Use the below information as a guide to creating a plan.
Emergency Plan
A detailed emergency plan is key. Plans should include:
- Contact information for local utility companies and emergency services.
- Clear instructions on how to use backup power sources.
- Evacuation/exit plans. Designate a place to take shelter. Planned transportation to this location should also be considered.
Essential Supplies
Make sure your home or place of living is well-stocked with essential supplies such as:
Communication Plan
Create a communication plan to keep key contacts informed. This should include:
- A list of emergency contacts. Can include:
- Local first responders,
- Family members,
- Guardians, and/or
- Responsible parties.
- Methods for regular updates for key contacts (e.g., text messages, phone calls).
Contact Information for Heat Emergencies/Alerts
Source: ADHS Heat Safety Resource Guide
National Weather Service Heat Risk Index
- 0 Green - Little - Little to no risk from expected heat.
- 1 Yellow - Minor - This level of heat affects primarily those individuals extremely sensitive to heat without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration.
- 2 Orange - Moderate - This level of heat affects most individuals sensitive to heat. Impacts possible in some health systems and in heat sensitive industries.
- 3 Red - Major - This level of heat affects anyone without effective cooling or hydration. Impacts most health care systems.
- 4 Magenta - Extreme - This level of rare and/or long-duration extreme heat with little to no overnight relief affects anyone without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration. Impacts health care systems and heat sensitive industries and infrastructure
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