Extreme Heat Planning Ahead Together

Lake County’s Extreme Heat Annex is more than a document; it’s a blueprint for action. Written by the Office of Emergency Services, the plan unites County Administration, Health Services, Social Services, and local nonprofits to respond to rising temperatures. It sets clear activation phases, guides communication across agencies, and prioritizes those most at risk: older adults, people with disabilities, and those without stable housing or air conditioning. Public Information, health education, and cooling options are just some of the tools used to keep residents safe.

The plan includes three response levels, Readiness, Moderate, and Critical, based on heat severity and power grid strain. From May through summer, agencies ramp up communication, prepare facilities, and monitor National Weather Service updates. When conditions escalate, coordination intensifies. Facilities like libraries and peer support sites may serve as cooling options, depending on hours, staffing, and available backup power. The focus is clear: timely action, targeted outreach, and multi-agency coordination.

Government cannot do it alone, and we are grateful the Lake County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) Resilience Hub Network is taking proactive measures to support community safety and well-being during periods of high heat. During summer’s extreme heat events, participating Resilience Hubs may activate to offer safe, air-conditioned spaces for residents seeking relief. Operated by local organizations, these hubs provide a welcoming environment—especially for individuals without reliable indoor cooling.