City urges community to take precautions during heat wave

   The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services issued an advisory for all Missourians to be extremely mindful of the dangers that this week’s 5-day heat wave can have on anyone who is not taking the necessary precautions to protect themselves from excessive heat.

   With temperatures projected to be in the high 90s this week and heat indexes rising over 100 degrees, the City of Rolla also urges residents to take extra precautions to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses.

   High temperatures and humidity can combine to create deadly conditions, especially for high-risk populations such as the very young, the very old, and people weakened by chronic illness or other health conditions. Also at risk are adults of any age who work or exercise vigorously outdoors and fail to rest frequently in a cool environment or drink enough fluids. The more you are exposed to high temperatures, the more prone you are to illness.

   People are encouraged to check on their elderly family members and neighbors regularly to be sure they are not suffering form the effects of high temperatures, and to never leave infants and children unattended in hot environments. In the conditions of this extreme heat, pets also need to receive extra water and shade/shelter.

   The most efficient way to beat the heat is to spend time in an air-conditioned area, but if you do not have air conditioning in your home, consider spending time at a friend’s house, in a local shopping center or supermarket, the Rolla Public Library (900 Pine Street), The Centre (1200 North Holloway Street), and the City Hall Council Chambers lobby (901 North Elm Street). The Centre, Rolla Public Library and City Hall Council Chambers lobby are available during the day.

   For more information regarding what to do in case of extreme heat, please visit the City of Rolla’s Emergency Preparedness Web page at www.rollacity.org/emergency. Additional information on preventing heat-related illness is also available through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services’ Web site at www.dhss.mo.gov.