The National Weather Service predicted “dangerously hot conditions” across much of Western Washington from Monday through Thursday evening this week (Aug. 14-17).

Temperatures are forecasted to reach the high 90s and pass 100 degrees in some areas. This means it’s time for people to plan and take precautions to stay cool and safe, both outdoors and at home.

Weather forecasters predict temperatures will hit 90 on Vashon over the next few days. On Vashon, the HeatRisk Index will be at least moderate for individuals sensitive to heat. At times, for some sun-exposed and interior areas of the island, the HeatRisk Index could even reach the major risk level that could affect anyone without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration.

Given the predictions for high temperatures, Public Health – Seattle & King County recommends everyone limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day and be especially aware of the heat effects on vulnerable people who may have health challenges and may not have access to water and shade.

Heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable. For those without air conditioning in their homes, cooling off can be a challenge, particularly for people with health conditions, the elderly, and infants.

Regional cooling centers will be set up across the state and are free to the public during heat events. Dial 2-1-1 or use the statewide online resource to find cooling centers near you. Please call 7-1-1 before dialing 2-1-1 for TYY services. Language assistance is available.

On Vashon, the local library, at 17210 Vashon Hwy SW, is a reliable and welcoming place to cool down on hot days. Library hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Thursday and Friday; 12 to 8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday. The library is closed on Sunday.

Other key recommendations for heat safety include:

• Stay indoors and in an air-conditioned environment as much as possible.
• Keep your home cool by closing windows and shades during daylight hours. Use your stove and oven less to keep temperatures cooler inside.
• Check on your friends, family, and neighbors before bedtime. Assist those who are vulnerable or at higher risk, neighbors who are elderly, ill, or may need help.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids but don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
• Keep outdoor pets safe and make sure they have protection from heat. Walk on grass instead of asphalt, which can burn your pet’s paws. Never leave people or pets in a parked vehicle.
• Take frequent breaks when working outdoors. Wear wide-brimmed hats, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and protect your skin from sunburn.
• Do not rely on a fan as your only cooling source. While electric fans might provide some comfort, they won’t prevent heat-related illness when temperatures are very hot.
• If you notice symptoms of heat illness (dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps), act immediately. Move to a cooler location to rest for a few minutes and seek medical attention right away if you do not feel better.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes. Rivers, lakes and Puget Sound are still very cold this time of year, and jumping into cold open water can result in shock, arrhythmia and drowning. Cold showers combined with hot body temperatures can cause hypothermia, especially for elders and children. Ease into temperature changes.
• Follow water safety tips if you go swimming or boating. Remember swimming in open water is very different from swimming in a pool. Make sure to wear a life jacket that fits.

Burn Ban

High temperatures and dry conditions increase wildfire risk.

On Tuesday, in coordination with the King County Fire Chiefs Association, and the Association of King County Fire Marshals, a Stage 2 Complete Burn Ban was implemented.

The ban prohibits all outdoor fires, including recreational campfires, pellet fire pits, cooking fires, and ceremonial fires. The ban will remain in effect until further notice.

The ban does not include propane or natural-gas-fired grills, fireplaces, fire tables, enclosed pellet cooking

smokers and other gas-fired appliances that may continue to be used along with charcoal grills.

Please use caution when disposing of charcoal remains.

Vashon Fire Chief Matt Vinci said he had urged King County to move to the Stage 2 Burn Ban level, and that he would soon meet with Fire Marshall to develop a plan so that Vashon could move to Stage 2 bans sooner than the rest of the county, if necessary.

Get alerts

Islanders can sign up to receive Voice of Vashon’s emergency alerts, or tune into 1650 AM radio the Voice of Vashon app, when they see the blinking lights on the fire danger signs at four locations around the island.