30/06/2026
County announces heat safety measures
With temperatures climbing and an extended period of extreme heat forecasted for our region, the Patrick County Office of Emergency Management is urging all residents to take proactive steps to stay safe. Extreme heat is a serious weather hazard, and prolonged exposure can lead to severe health risks, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
“The safety and well-being of our citizens is our top priority during this heat wave,” said Scottie Cassell, Emergency Management Director. “We encourage everyone to limit their time outdoors during the peak heat hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and to check on elderly neighbors, friends, and family members who may be vulnerable to these high temperatures.”
Designated Cooling Assistance:
For residents who do not have access to reliable air conditioning at home, the following locations are available to provide relief from the heat:
· Public Libraries: The Patrick County Public Library system serves as an ideal location to cool down during regular business hours.
· Emergency Activation: Should conditions deteriorate or if widespread power outages occur, the Office of Emergency Management is prepared to activate additional community-based cooling centers. Updates regarding these locations will be shared immediately via local media and the county’s official communication channels.
Residents are reminded that if they are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Core Heat Safety Guidelines:
To minimize the risk of heat-related illness, please adhere to the following safety precautions:
· Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid beverages containing caffeine or alcohol, which can accelerate dehydration.
· Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing if you must go outside.
· Limit Exertion: Avoid strenuous activities or heavy outdoor work during the hottest parts of the day.
· Never Leave Dependents in Vehicles: Under no circumstances should children, older adults, or pets be left unattended in a parked vehicle. Temperatures inside a closed car can reach lethal levels within minutes, even with the windows cracked.
· Monitor Symptoms: Be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses. Symptoms like dizziness, nausea, a rapid pulse, or red, hot, and dry skin require immediate action. Move to a cooler area, sip water, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Please be mindful of our four-legged friends, too. When temperatures soar, animals face severe heat risks because they cannot cool themselves down as efficiently as humans. Dogs and cats rely primarily on panting, making them highly susceptible to rapid heatstroke, while livestock and wildlife struggle to find adequate shade and water. Leaving animals on hot asphalt or inside a parked vehicle—where temperatures can spike to lethal levels in minutes—poses an immediate threat to their lives, making constant access to shade, ventilation, and fresh water absolutely vital.
For additional information on heat safety or to receive updates on emergency declarations, please contact the Patrick County Office of Emergency Management at (276) 694-4940 or visit the official county website at
