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U.S. Department of Homeland Security FEMA Region III One Independence Mall, Sixth Floor 615 Chestnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 Stakeholder Toolkit 2017 Heat and Drought Preparedness Campaign Heat and Drought Preparedness Campaign: June 2017 The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA ), the Ready Campaign , and Prepareathon are teaming up this June to educate the public on heat safety and drought preparedness to ensure everyone is prepared for the summer heat. Heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. In extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA ), there were 45 heat related fatalities in 2015, with those over the age of 60 making up the majority of the fatalities. Heat has the highest 10-year average of deaths-per-year at 113 fatalities. During times of extreme heat, many areas may also experience periods of reduced rainfall or drought. As the summer continues and temperatures rise, there may be an increased risk of drought in our region. If a drought should occur, it’s important to know what measures to take to decrease the impact to yourself and property. Throughout the month of June, FEMA will be raising awareness of how citizens can take steps to decrease their risk to both heat and drought. In addition to asking Americans to learn their risks and know what to do through its own outreach channels, FEMA Region III is encouraging everyone to get the word out and help the Whole Community prepare for heat and drought emergencies. This toolkit is designed to provide you and your organization fema.gov Page 1 of 20
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U.S. Department of Homeland SecurityFEMA Region IIIOne Independence Mall, Sixth Floor615 Chestnut StreetPhiladelphia, PA 19106

Stakeholder Toolkit2017 Heat and Drought Preparedness Campaign

Heat and Drought Preparedness Campaign: June 2017

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Ready Campaign, and Prepareathon are teaming up this June to educate the public on heat safety and drought preparedness to ensure everyone is prepared for the summer heat.

Heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. In extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there were 45 heat related fatalities in 2015, with those over the age of 60 making up the majority of the fatalities. Heat has the highest 10-year average of deaths-per-year at 113 fatalities. During times of extreme heat, many areas may also experience periods of reduced rainfall or drought. As the summer continues and temperatures rise, there may be an increased risk of drought in our region. If a drought should occur, it’s important to know what measures to take to decrease the impact to yourself and property.Throughout the month of June, FEMA will be raising awareness of how citizens can take steps to decrease their risk to both heat and drought. In addition to asking Americans to learn their risks and know what to do through its own outreach channels, FEMA Region III is encouraging everyone to get the word out and help the Whole Community prepare for heat and drought emergencies. This toolkit is designed to provide you and your organization with easy to use tools to promote this campaign and help your stakeholders be better prepared for disasters.FEMA REGION III CONTACTS

Public Affairs Will Powell 215-931-5684Congressional Affairs Corey Rigby 215-931-5715Intergovernmental Affairs Stephanie Pyle 215-931-5654

Private Sector Stephanie Pyle 215-931-5654Volunteer Agency Michelle Breeland 215-931-5584

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LiaisonCommunity Preparedness Amanda Hancher 215-931-5716

Disability Integration PJ Mattiacci 267-270-5804

Talking Points

Heat waves can be dangerous and even life-threatening for humans who don't take the proper precautions.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there were 45 heat related fatalities in 2015. Heat also holds the highest 10-year average of 113 fatalities.

Most heat disorders occur because the victim has been overexposed to heat or has over-exercised for his or her age and physical condition. Older adults, young children, and those who are sick or overweight are more likely to succumb to extreme heat.

During times of extreme heat, many areas can also experience periods of reduced rainfall or drought. As the summer continues and temperatures rise, there may be an increased risk of drought in our region. If a drought should occur, it’s important to know what measures to take to reduce the impact to yourself and property.

Nearly every part of our country experiences periods of reduced rainfall or drought. If we plan for drought, then we can enjoy the benefits of normal or rainy years and not be caught unprepared in dry years.

Key Messaging:Heat Preparedness

A heat wave is an extended period of extreme heat, and can be accompanied by high humidity. These conditions can be dangerous and even life-threatening for humans who don't take the proper precautions.

Know the Terms:o Heat Wave - Prolonged period of excessive heat often combined

with excessive humidity.o Heat Index - A number in degrees Fahrenheit (F) that tells how

hot it feels when relative humidity is added to the air temperature. Exposure to full sunshine can increase the heat index by 15 degrees.

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o Heat Cramps - Muscular pains and spasms due to heavy exertion. Although heat cramps are the least severe, they are often the first signal that the body is having trouble with the heat.

o Heat Exhaustion - Typically occurs when people exercise heavily or work in a hot, humid place where body fluids are lost through heavy sweating. Blood flow to the skin increases, causing blood flow to decrease to the vital organs. This results in a form of mild shock. If not treated, the victim's condition will worsen. Body temperature will keep rising and the victim may suffer heat stroke.

o Heat Stroke - A life-threatening condition. The victim's temperature control system, which produces sweating to cool the body, stops working. The body temperature can rise so high that brain damage and death may result if the body is not cooled quickly.

o Sun Stroke - Another term for heat stroke.o Excessive Heat Watch - Conditions are favorable for an excessive

heat event to meet or exceed local Excessive Heat Warning criteria in the next 24 to 72 hours.

o Excessive Heat Warning - Heat Index values are forecast to meet or exceed locally defined warning criteria for at least 2 days (daytime highs=105-110° Fahrenheit).

o Heat Advisory - Heat Index values are forecast to meet locally defined advisory criteria for 1 to 2 days (daytime highs=100-105° Fahrenheit).

Before extreme heat occurs it is import to take steps now to prepare;

o Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary.

o Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.

o Install temporary window reflectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside.

o Weather-strip doors and sills to keep cool air in.

o Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings, or louvers. (Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent.)

o Keep storm windows up all year.

o Listen to local weather forecasts and be aware of possible temperature changes.

o Know those in your neighborhood who might be most at risk to excessive heat and may need help.

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o Be aware that people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave than people living in rural areas.

o Get trained in first aid to learn how to treat heat-related emergencies.

What you should do if the weather is extremely hot:

o Listen to NOAA Weather Radio for critical updates from the National Weather Service (NWS).

o Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.

o Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.

o Stay on the lowest floor and out of direct sunshine if air conditioning is not available.

o Postpone outdoor games and activities.

o If you must be outside, protect yourself by using sunscreen on exposed skin.

o Consider spending the warmest part of the day in temperature controlled buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities.

o Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation.

o Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.

o Drink plenty of water; even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.

o Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.

o Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.

o Protect your face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.

o Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.

o Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.

o Avoid extreme temperature changes.

o Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.

o Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power during periods of extreme heat. Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the

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nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345) and listen to your local officials for shelter locations.

People living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave than those living in rural areas. Also, asphalt and concrete store heat longer and gradually release heat at night, which can produce higher nighttime temperatures known as the "urban heat island effect."

Drought Preparedness

Strategies for drought preparedness focus mainly on water conservation. The below list of practices is some of the ways before a drought occurs one can take action every day to help preserve this essential resource.

Indoor Water Conservation Tips Prior to a Drought (General, Bathroom, Kitchen)

o Never pour water down the drain when there may be another use for it. For example, use it to water your indoor plants or garden.

o Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers. One drop per second wastes 2,700 gallons of water per year.

o Check all plumbing for leaks and have any leaks repaired by a plumber.

o Retrofit all household faucets by installing aerators with flow restrictors.

o Install an instant hot water heater on your sink.

o Insulate your water pipes to reduce heat loss and prevent them from breaking.

o Install a water-softening system only when the minerals in the water would damage your pipes. Turn the softener off while on vacation.

o Choose appliances that are more energy and water efficient.

o Consider purchasing a low-volume toilet that uses less than half the water of older models. Note: In many areas, low-volume units are required by law.

o Install a toilet displacement device to cut down on the amount of water needed to flush. Place a one-gallon plastic jug of water into the tank to displace toilet flow (do not use a brick, it may dissolve and loose pieces may cause damage to the internal parts). Be sure installation does not interfere with the operating parts.

o Replace your showerhead with an ultra-low-flow version.

o Start a compost pile as an alternate method of disposing of food waste or simply dispose of food in the garbage. (Kitchen sink disposals require a lot of water to operate properly)

Outdoor Water Conservation Tips Prior to a Drought (general, lawn, pool)

o Check your well pump periodically. If the automatic pump turns on and off while water is not being used, you have a leak.

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o Plant native and/or drought-tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs, and trees. Once established, plants adapted to your local climate do not need water as frequently and usually will survive a dry period without watering. Small plants require less water to become established. Group plants together based on similar water needs.

o Install irrigation devices that are the most water efficient for each use, such as micro and drip irrigation, and soaker hoses.

o Use mulch to retain moisture in the soil. Mulch also helps control weeds that compete with landscape plants for water.

o Avoid purchasing recreational water toys that require a constant stream of water.

o Avoid installing ornamental water features (such as fountains) unless they use re-circulated water.

o Consider rainwater harvesting where practical.

o Contact your local water provider for information and assistance.

o Position sprinklers so water lands on the lawn and shrubs and not on paved areas.

o Repair sprinklers that spray a fine mist. Most misting issues result from a pressure problem. Properly regulating pressure in an irrigation system will prevent misting.

o Check sprinkler systems and timing devices regularly to be sure they operate properly.

o Raise the lawn mower blade to at least three inches or to its highest level. A higher cut encourages grass roots to grow deeper, shades the root system, and holds soil moisture.

o Plant drought-resistant lawn seed. Reduce or eliminate lawn areas that are not used frequently.

o Avoid over-fertilizing your lawn. Applying fertilizer increases the need for water. Apply fertilizers that contain slow-release, water-insoluble forms of nitrogen.

o Choose a water-efficient irrigation system such as drip irrigation for your trees, shrubs, and flowers.

o Turn irrigation down in fall and off in winter. Water manually in winter only if needed.

o Put a layer of mulch around trees and plants to reduce evaporation and keep the soil cool. Organic mulch also improves the soil and prevents weeds.

o Invest in a weather-based irrigation controller—or a smart controller. These devices will automatically adjust the watering time and frequency based on soil moisture, rain, wind, and evaporation and transpiration rates. Check with your local water agency to see if there is a rebate available for the purchase of a smart controller.

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o Install a new water-saving pool filter. A single back flushing with a traditional filter uses 180 to 250 gallons of water.

o Cover pools and spas to reduce evaporation of water.

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Press Release Template<ORGANIZATION> is Encouraging Everyone to Know the Facts about

Heat and Drought

Know the Facts. Know How to Act.Heat and Drought Preparedness

June 2017<CITY, St.> – <INSERT ORGANIZATION> is proud to join the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to promote heat and drought preparedness by spreading the word and encouraging <employees or residents> and the rest of the community to learn the facts and taking steps now to prepare. <INSERT ORGANIZATION> is <INSERT EVENT INFORMATION HERE> or <committed to being a leader for emergency preparedness>.This June, FEMA, the Ready Campaign, and Prepareathon will be educating the public on heat and drought preparedness to ensure everyone is prepared for the summer heat. There were 45 heat-related deaths in 2015 and heat has the highest 10-year average at 113 fatalities. During times of extreme heat, many areas may also experience periods of reduced rainfall or drought. As the summer continues and temperatures rise, there may be an increased risk of drought in our region. If a drought should occur, it’s important to know what measure to take to reduce the impact to yourself and property.<INSERT ORGANIZATION> will be raising awareness of how citizens can take steps to decrease their risk to both heat and drought through <INSERT STEPS TAKEN>. <INSERT ORGANIZATION> is committed to helping the Whole Community to prepare for both heat and drought emergencies.

More information on heat and drought can be found at <INSERT ORGANIZATION WEBSITE>, Ready.gov or the Spanish-language web site Listo.gov.

# # #

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Online ResourcesFEMA, Ready, and NOAA recommend using social media tools as a way to promote the 2017 Heat and Drought Preparedness Campaign! You can promote the campaign and general preparedness through your own channels, or by promoting messages posted by the FEMA, Ready and NOAA accounts.

We have included some sample messages below that you can post on your own social media accounts to engage your friends/followers on heat and drought preparedness. More information and ideas on how to take action and be an example can be found on FEMA’s official Facebook or Twitter accounts, Ready’s official Facebook or Twitter accounts, NOAA’s official Facebook or Twitter, the National Weather Service’s official Facebook and Twitter account, or FEMA Region III’s Twitter account.

FEMA App (smartphone app for mobile devices)

The FEMA App contains disaster safety tips, interactive lists for storing your emergency kit, emergency meeting location information, and other disaster-specific information. The app is free to download through your smart phone provider’s app store on Android, Apple, and Blackberry devices.

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Social MediaFEMA, the Ready Campaign, Prepareathon and FEMA Region III will have daily messages on their Facebook and Twitter accounts.

You may follow and echo the messaging from these accounts.

FEMA Region IIIo Twitter

FEMA HQo Facebook o Twitter

Readyo Facebook o Twitter

Prepareathono Twitter

Twitter Messaging

2017 Heat and Drought Preparedness Campaign

These messages are designed to be posted at any point during the 2017 Heat and Drought Preparedness Campaign. Feel free to adapt the messages to suit your needs.

Know Your Risk

Follow @NWS for heat advisories & excessive heat warnings so you can #BeatTheHeat this summer

Do you know the difference between a Heat Outlook, Watch, & Warning? Learn them today: http://1.usa.gov/1eJqSR1 #BeatTheHeat

Heat Wave: Prolonged period of excessive heat, often with excessive humidity: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/os/heat/ww.shtml #BeatTheHeat

Listen to local weather forecasts to prepare for extreme heat #BeatTheHeat

Extreme heat makes the body work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature. Know the facts &  prepare: www.ready.gov/heat #HeatSafety

Reduce Heat Impact – Stay Indoors

Roughly 40% of unwanted heat buildup in our homes is through windows. Use awnings or curtains to keep the heat out! #BeatTheHeat

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#BeatTheHeat this summer! Check air conditioning ducts for proper installation and weather strip doors and windows to keep the cool air in.

Extreme heat can often lead to #blackouts.  Don't be in the dark, learn how to prepare at: https://www.ready.gov/power-outages #HeatSafety

Fans alone aren’t enough in high heat + high humidity. Get inside in A/C or go to a public place like a shopping mall to #BeatTheHeat

In extreme heat, stay indoors where there's working A/C! You can find more tips at: 1.usa.gov/1ByRsWF #BeatTheHeat

During extreme heat, stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. www.ready.gov/heat #BeatTheHeat

Reduce Heat Impact – Cooling off Centers

Enter your zip code at www.211.org to find cooling-off centers near you! #SummerSafety #BeatTheHeat #PrepareAthon

Are you in extreme heat? Contact your local Office of Emergency Management to find a cooling-off center near you. #BeatTheHeat

Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power during extreme heat. #BeatTheHeat

Reduce Heat Impact – Protect Yourself Outdoors

Loosen up! Make sure you're wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing this summer to #BeatTheHeat!

NEVER leave children or pets alone in hot vehicles! Cars can heat up 20 degrees in just 10 minutes! #BeatTheHeat

Check on your pets frequently to ensure they are safe during extreme heat. #BeatTheHeat

Keep strenuous activity to a minimum during the hottest parts of the day (11am-2pm) and use a buddy system! #SummerSafety

#BeatTheHeat  tip: Check on seniors, people who are ill or may need extra help frequently.

Reduce Heat Impact – General

Make sure you drink LOTS of water to stay hydrated and prevent dehydration, heat stroke & more. #SummerSafety

During extreme heat drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty. #HeatSafety

Got heat cramps? Rest in a cool place & drink a beverage containing electrolytes and sodium, like a sports drink. #BeatTheHeat

Recognize when someone is suffering from dehydration or heat stroke & act quickly! Learn the signs: http://1.usa.gov/1LrIGx7 #SummerSafety

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Here’s a sizzling summer tip - Get trained in first aid to learn how to treat heat-related emergencies! #SummerSafety #PrepareAthon 

Have you ever experienced the "urban heat island effect?" Learn more about #HeatSafety and how to prepare at www.ready.gov/heat

Video: #HeatSafety information and tips in American Sign Language! https://youtu.be/0DZFOJowvb8    

Take your #SummerSafety up a notch and see if you can complete all 10 of these preparedness activities. #PrepareAthon

Drought Preparedness

Never pour water down the drain when there may be another use for it. For example, use it to water your indoor plants or garden. #drought

Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers. One drop a second wastes 2,700 gallons of water per year. #drought

Learn about #drought safety, #prepare your home by fixing leaks, and register w/@PrepareAthon http://www.ready.gov/prepare

Prepare for #drought by checking all plumbing for leaks and have any leaks repaired by a plumber. http://www.ready.gov/drought

Check your well pump periodically. If the automatic pump turns on and off while water is not being used, you have a leak. #drought

Position sprinklers so water lands on the lawn and shrubs and not paved areas. #drought http://www.ready.gov/drought

Check sprinkler systems and timing devices regularly to ensure they operate properly. #drought http://www.ready.gov/drought

Raise lawn mower blades to 3 inches or the highest level to encourage roots to grow deeper, shade the root system & hold soil moisture.

Cover pools and spas to reduce evaporation of water. #drought http://www.ready.gov/drought

Facebook Messaging

2017 Heat and Drought Preparedness CampaignThese messages are designed to be posted at any point during the 2017 Heat and Drought Preparedness Campaign. Feel free to adapt the messages to suit your needs.

Know Your Risk

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Know the terms: Excessive Heat Watch - Conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event to meet or exceed local Excessive Heat Warning criteria in the next 24 to 72 hours. For more tips visit: www.ready.gov/heat #BeatTheHeat

Know the terms: Excessive Heat Warning - Heat Index values are forecast to meet or exceed locally defined warning criteria for at least 2 days (daytime highs=105-110°Fahrenheit)http://www.ready.gov/heat #BeatTheHeat

Heat Advisory - Heat Index values are forecast to meet locally defined advisory criteria for 1 to 2 days (daytime highs=100-105°Fahrenheit) www.ready.gov/heat  #BeatTheHeat

Summertime in the city: Did you know that urban residences are at greater risk of the effects of prolonged #heat than rural and suburban residences? www.ready.gov/heat #HeatSafety

Reduce Heat Impact

Consider spending the warmest part of the day in temperature controlled buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, or community facilities. #BeatTheHeat

During extreme heat, eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician. #BeatTheHeat

Make water your beverage of choice during extreme heat. Here’s why, it prevents dehydration, heat stroke, and more. So keep the caffeine at bay and guzzle some good ol’ H20. #SummerSafety

Make the right fashion choices during extreme heat. Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays. #BeatTheHeat

Have to work outside? Use these #HeatSafety tips. Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.

During extreme heat, check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone. #SummerSafety

Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power during periods of extreme heat. Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345). #BeatTheHeat 

Did you know: High heat and humidity cause the body to work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature. Stay indoors with air conditioning. More tips at www.ready.gov/heat #HeatSafety

Too hot to play outside?  www.ready.gov/kids offers plenty of games and activities that will help children learn and prepare for emergencies as they play! #SummerSafety

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It’s going to be a hot one! Is your family prepared for outdoor activities this summer? Find #HeatSafety tips at www.ready.gov/heat

Don’t forget about your pets. Share these tips from the Humane Society to keep pets safe in the heat: http://bit.ly/1RRltIL #BeatTheHeat

Drought Preparedness Never pour water down the drain when there may be another use for

it. For example, use it to water your indoor plants or garden. #drought http://www.ready.gov/drought

Learn about #drought safety, #prepare your home by fixing leaks, and register with America’s #PrepareAthon http://www.ready.gov/prepare

Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers. One drop per second wastes 2,700 gallons of water per year. #drought http://www.ready.gov/drought

Prepare for #drought by checking all plumbing for leaks and have any leaks repaired by a plumber. http://www.ready.gov/drought

Check your well pump periodically. If the automatic pump turns on and off while water is not being used, you have a leak. #drought http://www.ready.gov/drought

Position sprinklers so water lands on the lawn and shrubs and not on paved areas. #drought http://www.ready.gov/drought

Check sprinkler systems and timing devices regularly to be sure they operate properly. #drought http://www.ready.gov/drought

Raise the lawn mower blade to at least three inches or to its highest level. A higher cut encourages grass roots to grow deeper, shades the root system, and holds soil moisture. http://www.ready.gov/drought

Cover pools and spas to reduce evaporation of water. #drought http://www.ready.gov/drought

Resources National Weather Service

o National Weather Service: Heat Wave: A Major Summer Killer. An outline brochure describing the heat index, heat disorders and heat wave safety tips. Available online at: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/brochures/heat_wave.shtml.

o Heat Safety Tips

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Related websites: Find additional information on how to plan and prepare for extreme heat and learn about available resources by visiting the following websites:

o American Red Cross o National Integrated Drought Information System o Center For Disease Control and Prevention

Listen to local officials: Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management officials.

Graphics

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