Blog: Your guide to heat safety

Published on August 11, 2026

As temperatures continue to rise across North Port, it’s important for residents and visitors to take precautions to stay safe in the Florida heat. High temperatures and humidity can quickly lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion or even heat stroke if proper precautions are not taken.

Whether you are spending time outdoors, working in the heat, exercising, attending summer events or simply running errands, understanding the signs of heat-related illness and knowing how to protect yourself can help prevent serious health issues.

Heat-related illnesses happen when the body is unable to cool itself properly. Normally, the body cools itself through sweating, but during periods of extreme heat and humidity, that may not be enough. When body temperature rises too quickly, it can damage the brain and other vital organs.

Recognize the warning signs

The most common heat-related illnesses include heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Heat cramps are often the first warning sign that the body is struggling with the heat and may include heavy sweating and painful muscle cramps or spasms. If heat stress continues, a person may develop heat exhaustion. Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include dizziness, nausea, weakness, thirst and excessive sweating.

Significant physical exertion or heat exposure can result in heat stroke, which is a life-threatening emergency. Signs of heat stroke include a body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher, confusion, disorientation, dizziness, loss of coordination or loss of consciousness. The person’s skin may be hot and either dry or sweaty with a rapid pulse. Heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer regulate temperature. Without immediate treatment, heat stroke can lead to permanent organ damage or death. If someone is experiencing heat stroke, call 911 immediately, and move them to a cooler location while waiting for emergency responders.

Staying safe at home

One of the best ways to stay safe during periods of extreme heat is to remain in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible. If your home does not have air conditioning, consider visiting a library, shopping center or other public facility for part of the day.

To reduce the risk of heat illness, residents and visitors are encouraged to:

Drink more water than usual and avoid waiting until they feel thirsty
Take cool showers or baths
Keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day
Avoid using ovens and stoves when possible
Check on neighbors, friends and family members, especially older adults or those with medical conditions

It's Important to Remember electric fans may provide comfort, but when temperatures exceed 90 degrees, fans alone may not prevent heat-related illness. Heat can cause power losses. It’s a good idea to have a plan for what to do with refrigerated medications and electronic medical devices. If possible, keep ice available should you need to use a cooler to store medication, water and food.

Outdoor safety tips

During Florida summers, outdoor temperatures can become dangerous quickly, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is strongest. People who work outdoors are more likely to become dehydrated and suffer from a heat-related illness. Make sure to take steps to protect your health on hot days. If you must spend time outdoors:

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing
Drink water regularly throughout the day
Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas
Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours
Wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat, be aware that even on overcast days you should wear sunscreen (check the UV ratings and not just the temperature)
Windy days sometimes mask the heat
Watch for signs of heat-related illness in yourself and others

Supplemental safety tips

Limit your intake of alcohol, sugary drinks and caffeine
Eat light, regular and well-balanced small meals. Avoid adding salt (unless your doctor instructs you too)
Consult your doctor if you are on medications that affect hydration or temperature regulation
Avoid places where you will encounter extreme temperature changes

Vehicle safety

Never leave children, older adults or pets unattended in a vehicle not even for a few minutes. Interior car temperatures can rise rapidly and become deadly. A child’s body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult’s, making hot vehicles especially dangerous.

In 2018 and 2019, 53 children died in hot cars, a record and heartbreaking number. In 2025, 31 children died of heatstroke in vehicles. In total since 1998, 1044 children have died in hot cars. Of these:

52.9% were forgotten by caregivers
23.8% gained access on their own
21.9% were knowingly left by caregivers
1.3% unknown

In Florida, children 6 years of age and under may not be left unattended or unsupervised in a motor vehicle. Any person who violates this and subsequently causes great bodily harm, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement to a child could be charged with a felony of the third degree.

Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle even for a minute, and if you see a child unattended in a hot vehicle call 911 immediately. Before leaving your vehicle, always check to make sure every passenger has exited safely, especially sleeping children. Keep vehicles locked when not in use and store keys or remote entry devices out of children’s reach. Teach children that cars are never a place to play and show them how to get help if they become trapped inside, including trying the front doors or honking the horn to attract attention.

Protecting vulnerable populations

While anyone can be affected by extreme heat, some groups are at greater risk, including:

Older adults
Infants and young children
Pregnant women
People with chronic medical conditions
Outdoor workers
Individuals without access to air conditioning

Older adults are especially vulnerable because the body becomes less efficient at regulating temperature with age. Friends, family and neighbors are encouraged to check in regularly on elderly residents during periods of extreme heat.

Don’t forget your pets

Pets are also at risk during hot weather. As a pet owner it is important to recognize the symptoms of overheating in pets, which include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling and mild weakness. If you have certain breeds such as those with flat faces (Pugs and Persian cats) be aware that they are more susceptible to heat stroke as they cannot pant as effectively. Always ensure pets have access to fresh water and shade and avoid walking dogs on hot pavement which can burn their paws. Animals should never be left in parked vehicles, even with windows cracked.

Be prepared this summer

Florida summers bring beautiful weather, outdoor activities and community events, but they also bring serious heat risks. Taking simple precautions such as staying hydrated, limiting sun exposure and checking on vulnerable loved ones can help keep everyone safe.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather forecasts, stay informed about heat advisories and take heat warnings seriously throughout the summer season.