07/04/2026
A dangerous heat wave is expected over the Fourth of July weekend, and the Local Health District is reminding everyone to take extra care while celebrating. High temperatures, holiday cookouts, and water fun can increase the risk of heat illness, foodborne illness, and injuries. Simple steps such as staying cool, handling food safely, watching children closely at the pool, and grilling with caution can help keep families safe during the holiday.
Heat Safety
Extreme heat can be deadly. High temperatures and humidity can put you at risk of heat-related illness. Prolonged exposure to heat can cause cramping, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and even death. Be aware of the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
When you are spending time outdoors in the heat, it is important to remember these tips:
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, not just when you are thirsty. Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.
• Slow down and limit outdoor activities between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest time of day. Take breaks in the shade. Check that animals also have access to fresh water and shade.
• Spend time indoors with air conditioning and fans. If you don’t have air conditioning, visit a cooling center. Check on loved ones and neighbors who may be at risk and don’t have air conditioning.
Food Safety
During the summer months, food poisoning is another concern due to warmer temperatures. Each year, 1 in 6 Americans get sick from eating contaminated food. Food poisoning symptoms include diarrhea, stomach pain or cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Keep yourself, guests and food safe by following these safety tips:
• Thaw and marinate food in the refrigerator. Cook food to a safe internal temperature. Store cooked food in a hot holding area (like an insulated container).
• Keep food cold with ice packs. Don’t let food sit out for more than two hours, or for one hour if the temperatures are higher than 90 degrees.
• Don’t cross-contaminate. Wash fresh produce before cutting. Use clean utensils and wash/sanitize in between use. Store raw meat on the bottom shelf to avoid meat juices from dripping on other food. Wash your hands before, during and after handling food.
Grilling Safety
Grilling is a popular way to prepare food throughout the summer, but it can present some hazards. July is the most common month for grill fires. Take these steps to ensure proper safety measures are followed:
• Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use. Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
• Never grill indoors, that includes in your house, camper, tent or any enclosed area.
• Make sure everyone but the cook stays away from the grill, including children and pets.
• Keep the grill away from the house or anything that could catch fire.
• Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill.
Water Safety
Pools, beaches, lakes and rivers can provide hours of enjoyment for adults and children. But many dangers exist around water. Everyone needs to be aware and take the necessary precautions to avoid potential injury or death.
• Constantly supervise children around water and avoid distractions. If you have a pool, secure it with appropriate barriers.
• Designate a water watcher whose sole responsibility is to oversee the activity in the water.
• Wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around water, especially children and non-experienced swimmers. Do not rely on life jackets alone.
• Don’t swim alone and only swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards.
• Reach or throw an object to the person in trouble in the event of an emergency. Don’t go in! You could become a victim yourself.
For additional information on healthy and safe swimming, visit
VDH resources for safe swimming, drowning prevention, recreational water illnesses, beach monitoring, and harmful algal blooms.
