The National Weather Service in Indianapolis has issued an Excessive Heat Warning, which is in effect from 2 p.m. Thursday until 8 p.m. Sunday. An Excessive Heat Warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are likely.
Highs will reach into the mid- to upper-90s daily, with heat indices reaching 105 to 110 degrees. The hottest conditions are expected Friday and Saturday.
Several days of heat indices of at least 105 degrees could have a cumulative impact on some individuals, especially those who spend a prolonged amount of time outdoors. The most susceptible are the very young, the elderly, those without air conditioning and anyone conducting strenuous outdoor activities.
Car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of MINUTES. Never leave pets, children or the elderly unattended in parked vehicles. The extended period of high heat and humidity will worsen the effects of heat stress.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.
Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency – call 911.
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
Young children and pets should NEVER be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
Take care of those who need help
McMahon
By SHARON McMAHON
For The Reporter
Our local meteorologists tell us that this weekend is going to one of the hottest in seven years, with temperatures reaching the high 90s.
Please remember that your car is never a place to leave unattended people or pets, as the heat inside the car can reach as much as 30 degrees or more higher than the outside temperatures in a very short time span.
Be sure to check on your elderly neighbors and friends, stay hydrated, and don’t forget our furry friends who depend on us. Just as you would not wish to swelter in a fur coat, your pet also will feel the effect of the heat very rapidly.
If you cannot bring your pets indoors, which is preferred, be sure that they have fresh, COOL water and plenty of shade. Also, think about how you would like to walk barefoot on hot pavement – ouch! They feel it too, so save the walks for either early or late in the day and allow your pet to stay on grass if possible.
The bottom line: Use caution, stay hydrated and take special care of those who cannot care for themselves.