Emergency Preparedness – Extreme Heat
As Washington state continues to see record high temperatures, with extreme highs anticipated next week, we would like to remind you of the Emergency Preparedness guidelines for temperatures in the building.
These extreme temperatures can negatively affect individuals, especially those with chronic or acute medical conditions, behavioral health conditions, and vulnerable populations like nursing home and assisted living residents. Over the past few years, there has been an increase in the number of deaths reported related to exposure to extreme temperatures. As the heat continues, we would like to remind you about the regulations requiring providers to maintain safe and comfortable temperatures in nursing homes and assisted living communities.
Recommended Actions for Healthcare:
Northwest Healthcare Response Network (NWHRN) recommends you view the Extreme Heat Tip Sheet, which provides some mitigation strategies for this type of event including, but not limited to:
- Review HVAC-System/Air Conditioning and other critical system vulnerabilities.
- Review Facility Emergency Preparedness Plan(s).
- Implement strategies to mitigate extreme heat and support vulnerable populations/employees.
- Communicate risks to patients/residents/families.
- Monitor weather conditions.
WAC 388-78A-2990- Heating-cooling—Temperature
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Preparedness Advisory_Heat_2022-07-19
Questions?
Contact:
Laura Hofmann, MSN, RN – Director of Clinical and Nursing Facility Regulatory Services
c: 425-231-4804