Talbot County, Maryland

Frequent Topics

• Heat Safety Tips

  Protect yourself and your family by following these simple precautions:

  • Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty.
  • Limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
  • Take frequent breaks in air-conditioned buildings or shaded areas.
  • Never leave children, older adults, or pets in a parked vehicle.
  • Check on neighbors, friends, and family members who may be vulnerable.
• Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness

  Heat Exhaustion

  Symptoms may include:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Cool, pale, or clammy skin
  • Muscle cramps
  • Move to a cool place, drink water, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour.

  Heat Stroke

  Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency.

  Symptoms include:

  • Body temperature above 103°F
  • Hot, red skin
  • Confusion or altered mental state
  • Rapid pulse
  • Loss of consciousness

  Call 911 immediately. Move the person to a cooler area while waiting for emergency responders.

• Staying Safe Outdoors

  If you must work or exercise outside:

  • Schedule strenuous activities during the morning or evening.
  • Drink water every 15–20 minutes.
  • Take breaks in the shade or air conditioning.
  • Wear sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight clothing.
  • Know your limits and stop activity if you begin feeling ill.
• Power Outages During Extreme Heat

  Power outages can quickly become dangerous during periods of extreme heat.

  If your power goes out:

  • Move to an air-conditioned location if possible.
  • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed.
  • Stay hydrated.
  • Use generators outdoors only and away from windows and doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

  Follow updates from your utility provider and Talbot County Emergency Services.

  In our area you may have the following: 

  • Easton Utilities
  • Delmarva Power
  • Choptank Electric
• Protect Children and Pets

  Children and pets are especially vulnerable to extreme heat.

  • Never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle, even for a few minutes.
  • Walk pets during cooler morning or evening hours.
  • Ensure pets always have access to fresh water and shade.
  • Check playground equipment before use, as surfaces can become hot enough to cause burns.
• Beat the Heat at Home
  • Use fans to improve air circulation, but remember that fans alone may not prevent heat-related illness during extreme temperatures.
  • Close blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day.
  • Limit the use of ovens and other heat-producing appliances.
  • Spend time in air-conditioned buildings such as libraries, community centers, or shopping centers if your home is not adequately cooled.
• When does the National Weather Service issue heat alerts?

  The National Weather Service issues Heat Advisories, Extreme Heat Watches, and Extreme Heat Warnings when forecast temperatures and heat index values reach dangerous levels for prolonged periods.

  Who is most at risk?

  • Adults age 65 and older
  • Infants and young children
  • People with chronic medical conditions
  • Outdoor workers
  • Athletes
  • Individuals without access to air conditioning