With a heat advisory in effect until 7:00 this evening and a series of 90-plus degree days ahead, it’s important that people know the best ways to keep cool.
Phil Rooney, Spokesman for the Douglas County Health Department, says it’s important to drink plenty of fluids before you get thirsty, avoiding caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.
He says if you’re going to go outside, wear loose fitting, light colored clothing and try to limit your outdoor activities to the cooler morning or evening hours.
Rooney says people 65 years of age or older as well as children are at the biggest risk but you can help by checking up on these individuals. He says this is not the time to overexert yourself.
"If you experience heat exhaustion, some of the symptoms might be heavy sweating, you should move to a cooler location. If you are feeling weak, lie down and loosen your clothing. If you have cold, pale, clammy skin, apply cool wet cloths to as much of your body as possible. If you have a weak, fast pulse, experience nausea or vomiting, seek medical attention immediately.”
Rooney say heat stroke is a more serious problem. If your body temperature is above 103 degrees, you need to call 9-1-1 immediately because it is an emergency.
Today’s temperatures will reach 96 to 101 degrees with heat index values of 102 to 108 degrees this afternoon.