Baker, Montana – Fallon County Disaster and Emergency Services is encouraging residents to take extra precautions as high temperatures are expected to affect the area this weekend.
Officials are reminding the public that extreme heat can quickly become dangerous, especially for older adults, young children, people with health conditions, outdoor workers, and pets. They are urging everyone to prepare ahead of time and take steps to avoid heat-related illnesses.
One of the agency’s strongest messages is for residents to look after those who may need extra help during periods of extreme heat.
Emergency officials encourage people to regularly check on neighbors, friends, relatives, and elderly residents, making sure they have enough drinking water, access to cool places, and any assistance they may need.
Officials stressed that residents should not wait until someone begins feeling ill before taking action.
Stay cool, hydrated, and alert for warning signs
Fallon County Disaster and Emergency Services advises residents to stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible and to use fans when temperatures allow. People spending time at home are encouraged to close curtains to reduce indoor heat and use fans when temperatures remain below 90 degrees.
If air conditioning is unavailable, officials recommend visiting public locations such as libraries or community centers to cool down. Cold showers, damp clothing, and cool compresses can also help lower body temperature.
Residents are also encouraged to avoid spending long periods outdoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when temperatures are typically at their highest.
Staying hydrated is another key recommendation. Officials advise drinking plenty of water throughout the day while limiting alcohol and caffeinated beverages, which can contribute to dehydration. People who sweat heavily may also benefit from electrolyte drinks. Monitoring urine color can help identify whether additional fluids are needed.
The agency also recommends wearing lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, along with wide-brimmed hats and sunscreen rated SPF 30 or higher. Tight-fitting and dark-colored clothing should be avoided because they absorb and trap more heat.
Residents planning outdoor activities should slow their pace, take regular breaks, and pay attention to how they feel. Officials also remind everyone never to leave children, adults, or pets inside parked vehicles, where temperatures can become life-threatening within minutes.
Emergency managers outlined several warning signs of heat exhaustion, including heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. They also warned that heatstroke is a medical emergency. Symptoms such as confusion and hot, dry skin require immediate emergency assistance.
Pets and other vulnerable groups also require special attention during periods of extreme heat. Officials recommend watching animals closely for signs of heat-related illness and ensuring they always have access to shade and fresh water.
Fallon County Disaster and Emergency Services also encourages residents to stay informed by following local weather forecasts and emergency alerts throughout the weekend.
Officials emphasized that following these simple safety measures can greatly reduce the risk of heat-related illness, reminding residents that when temperatures become dangerous, the safest choice is to get out of the heat, stay hydrated, and seek cooler environments whenever possible.
