Stay Cool, Stay Safe: How to Survive Triple-Digit Heat and Summer Emergencies in Gwinnett County - Explore Gwinnett's Best in Business, AI & Tech News 2025

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Gwinnett County, GA – As triple-digit heat index values creep into the forecast this week, it’s more important than ever to stay safe, cool, and informed. Summer may be a time for cookouts, pool days, and family fun—but it also brings serious health and safety risks that can quickly turn a good day into an emergency.

From heat-related illnesses to water accidents and unpredictable summer storms, here’s everything you need to know to keep yourself and your loved ones protected through the hottest days of the year.

📌 Visit GwinnettSafety411.com for comprehensive, real-time information from local Police, Fire, and Emergency Management departments.

🌡️ Triple-Digit Temps: How to Beat the Heat

When the heat index soars above 100°F, it doesn’t just feel miserable—it becomes dangerous. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are real threats, especially for children, seniors, outdoor workers, and pets.

Follow these proven steps to stay safe in the heat:

💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Drink cool water regularly—even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, and alcohol, which can dehydrate you faster. For athletes or those doing physical labor, include electrolyte-rich beverages like sports drinks.

🚿 Cool Down with a Quick Shower

After time outdoors, hop into a refreshing shower to bring your core temperature down. Applying a cold washcloth to your neck, wrists, and feet can also help if you don’t have access to a shower.

👕 Dress for Survival, Not Style

Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses add extra protection from UV rays.

🧴 Use Sunscreen + Seek Shade

Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ at least 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply every 2 hours. Find shaded areas or carry an umbrella if you’ll be exposed to direct sun for long periods.

🏠 Stay Indoors During Peak Heat

Avoid outdoor activity between 10 AM and 4 PM. Schedule walks, workouts, or errands early in the morning or after 6 PM. Air-conditioned spaces are your best friend. No AC at home? Visit a mall, library, or cooling center.

☀️ Sun Safety for All Ages

Sun exposure builds up over time. Children, especially, are more vulnerable to UV radiation, and long-term exposure can lead to skin cancer later in life.

📘 Read more on Sun Safety for Children.

🏊 Water Safety: Pools, Rivers & Lakes

Water-related fun is a summer staple in Gwinnett, but it comes with risks. Each year, accidental drownings spike during the hottest months.

👶 Keep Kids Safe While Swimming

Always supervise children—no exceptions.
Enforce strict “no running” and “no diving” rules in pools.
Teach kids basic swim skills early.
➡️ Learn more about swim safety tips here.

🛶 Lake Lanier & Chattahoochee River Safety

Boating and tubing on our local waterways can be fun—but dangerous if weather changes or you’re not prepared.

Always wear a life jacket, even if you’re a strong swimmer.
Check weather conditions before you go.
Avoid alcohol while boating.
🔗 Explore full lake and river safety guidelines.

🎆 Fireworks & Summer Fun Safety

Planning a backyard fireworks show? Think again.

Each year, fireworks cause thousands of injuries, most affecting children and teens. If you do use consumer fireworks:

Light them outdoors, away from people and dry grass.
Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby.
Never relight a “dud” firework.
📌 Get more fireworks safety tips.

⚡ Be Weather-Ready

Heatwaves can trigger pop-up thunderstorms, tornadoes, or even flash floods. Stay prepared:

Sign up for Wireless Emergency Alerts from the National Weather Service.
Download local apps for alerts from Gwinnett County Emergency Management.
Know the difference: Watch = Be ready. Warning = Take action.

📘 Don’t forget to check out Thunderstorm Safety Is Up to You and Turn Around, Don’t Drown.

🏡 Emergency Preparedness Starts at Home

Make sure your household is ready for any summer emergency.

📝 Build Your Family Emergency Plan

Include meeting points, communication options, and emergency contacts.
📌 Use FEMA’s template: Make a Plan

🧓 Prepare Older Family Members

Older adults may not recognize the signs of heat exhaustion. Assign someone to check in on them daily during heat waves.
➡️ Emergency Prep for Seniors

🐶 Pets Need a Plan Too

Never leave pets in cars—not even for a minute.
Make sure they have shade and access to cool water.
🦴 More pet safety tips here

💡 Tech-Ready Tips for Emergencies

When the power goes out or cell towers go down, you’ll be glad you prepped:

Keep your phone charged and have a power bank ready.
Store emergency contact info offline.
Have printed maps in your emergency kit.
📘 Get Tech Tips for Emergencies

🏠 Home Safety in Hot Weather

Summer also increases risks at home, especially around cooking, electricity, and cooling systems:

Use fans and portable A/C units safely.
Never plug high-powered devices into extension cords.
Keep outdoor grills at least 10 feet away from your home.
📌 Review home safety guidelines

📬 Stay Informed All Season

Local events
Safety alerts
Weather updates
Community resources

📨 Subscribe at GwinnettCounty.com

Final Word: Don’t Sweat the Summer

Gwinnett is full of vibrant communities and outdoor fun, but preparation is key. Whether you’re planning a hike, a lake day, or just walking the dog—respect the heat and respect nature. Emergencies don’t schedule themselves, but you can prepare.

📌 Start with GwinnettSafety411.com and share this guide with family and friends who need a refresher on staying safe under the sizzling Georgia sun.

🌞 From all of us at Good Morning Gwinnett, stay cool, stay alert, and stay safe!