From Health Commissioner Jackie Phillips:
(MIDDLETOWN, July 20, 2016) A Heat Advisory is hereby declared through Sunday July 24, 2016 due to the forecast for dangerously hot weather conditions with a heat wave during this time. (A heat wave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, which may be accompanied by high humidity.)
The high humidity and temperatures during this time will combine to produce a heat index values greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit for the remaining portion of the day.
“Under these conditions it is important that residents be aware and responsive to risks due to prolonged exposure to heat and to undue physical exertion,” Jackie Phillips, Health Commissioner, explained.
Ms. Phillips reminds us of the following health practices during excessively hot weather:
- Decrease physical activity. This is particularly advisable for joggers and junior/high school or any athletic teams. Exercise activities should occur early in the morning or in the early evening. Stay in shade as much as possible.
- Wear loose, lightweight and light colored cotton clothing.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Eat light meals.
- Put the alcoholic beverages away until cooler weather. Alcoholic drinks can increase a person’s risk to heat-related illnesses.
- Cool down with showers, baths, and recreational swimming.
- Adjust blinds, shades, and awnings to keep out sun.
- Use the basement during the hottest hours.
- Use a circulating fan to lower temperatures in living spaces. However, when temperature exceeds 95° F, a fan may not help unless it brings cool air into the apartment. Fans may even increase heat stress in very hot weather and should not be used to blow hot air directly onto the body.
- Be a good neighbor and check on those who may need assistance, such as the elderly and those with illnesses.
- Individuals with chronic health problems, such as heart disease or lung problems, should minimize activities because the heat will put additional stresses on those systems.
- Extra caution should be taken for the elderly and young, infants and children to assure that they are protected from the heat and are exercising these helpful hints.
- Children and pets should not be left unattended in closed vehicles. Temperatures can reach dangerous levels rapidly. To remind yourself that a child is in the car, place bags, cell phone or other items that you will take with you in the back seat. This will force you to turn around before exiting.
- Be kind to your pets. Provide pets with shade and plenty of cool water.
