‘Excessive heat watch’ issued for Southern California

The National Weather Service has issued an “excessive heat watch” for Southern California for Saturday -- warning that intense heat and high humidity could prove dangerous, especially to the young, aged and infirm.

As an emergency measure, the city of Los Angeles is opening “cooling centers” to include senior citizen centers, recreation facilities and libraries. A full list can be found at Emergency.lacity.org. Click on the banner that says “Cooling Facilities to beat the heat.”

A combination of high heat and humidity can cause a raft of health-endangering conditions: smoggy air quality, heat exhaustion, heat cramps and sunstroke. The Public Health Department has more information on those dangers: Publichealth.lacounty.gov.

Since energy uses spikes with hot weather, the Department of Water and Power is asking that a few simple measures be taken, such as turning off lights when not in use, avoid cooking during the hottest time of the day and ventilate your home at night.

Also, children and pets should never be left alone in closed vehicles. L.A. NOW