August 2019: Summer Heat, Disaster Kits, and School Traffic
Protect yourself and your family from the summer heat.
Drink Plenty of Water
In and out of air conditioning all day, we can forget that our summertime heat index is over 100 degrees Fahrenheit! If you are thirsty, you are showing the first symptoms of dehydration. The body most quickly absorbs water, not sports drinks, soda, iced tea, or coffee. Dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion and eventually a heatstroke, so be careful.
View the "Heat-Related Illnesses" guide from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for symptoms of a heat-related illness.
Hot Cars
Our vehicles with the windows closed cannot dissipate heat. Never leave a child or pet in a car! The body temperature can rise to 106 degrees Fahrenheit in less than ten minutes in a closed vehicle. Sustained high body temperature can affect the brain to swell and cause permanent damage. Even if the windows are cracked, the vehicle retains and magnifies the heat. If you encounter a child or pet left in a car, contact the police immediately
Disaster Supply Kits
It is essential to create a kit of supplies you could take with you if you are forced to evacuate. This kit will be useful through the loss of power. One common trend seen when hurricanes are approaching is a wide-spread panic. When this happens, people rush in large numbers to get all the supplies they think they need. However, if you prepare your kit ahead of time, you can alleviate a lot of the potential stress of a very chaotic situation. You should create your kit in a bag or tote you can easily take with you.
View the Winter Springs Police Department's Disaster Supply Kit brochure for a complete list of helpful tips and supplies needed. Another local resource is Seminole County's Prepare Seminole website.
Back to School Traffic
Welcome back to school, Seminole students! The first days of school usually consist of more traffic congestion than average. As a reminder, make sure you get an early start and be patient. If you don't often drive your child to school, expect delays during drop-off and pick-up. As drivers, let's all use extra care and caution as many of our students may be walking to their bus stop or school in the dark.
