Metro Takes Steps to Prepare for Heat Wave

[Howard Hartman]

Metro Takes Steps to Prepare for Heat Wave

Customers permitted to consume water on buses and trains through Monday

Due to the expected extreme temperatures over the next several days, Metro customers will be permitted to carry and consume water on the system Thursday afternoon through Monday, July 2, 2012.

The exception to Metro's "no drinking" policy applies to water only — on buses, in stations and aboard trains — and will remain in effect through system closing on Monday night. Customers are encouraged to use containers that can be tightly secured and to use trash receptacles to dispose of any waste.

All scheduled track work for this weekend will proceed as planned. Customers should take note of service impacts and plan accordingly.

While there are no speed restrictions or other service adjustments due to the heat, extremely high temperatures can place a strain on Metro infrastructure. Customers are encouraged to sign up for MetroAlerts to receive unplanned delay and service information via email or text message.

Customers are reminded to:

• Monitor for heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you're not feeling well, don't get on the train. An on-board medical emergency can delay an entire rail line. Instead, wait on the platform and ask a Metro employee to call for medical assistance.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Stay out of direct sunlight.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.