June 18, 2012

Cooling Centers Provide Relief from Summer Heat - June 24-30 is Missouri Summer Weather Safety Week

JEFFERSON CITY - The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, State Emergency Management Agency, and the National Weather Service are promoting Missouri Summer Safety Week (June 24-30) to highlight the risks and dangers associated with excessive heat. Missourians can find a public cooling center near them by visiting MO.gov. Through the online cooling center directory at MO.gov, users can simply enter a zip code, city or county to find a cooling center nearby.

"High temperatures and high humidity can cause health problems quickly and with little warning," said Margaret Donnelly, director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. "Summer Weather Safety Week reminds us of precautions we need to take to protect ourselves and others, especially those who are particularly vulnerable to the heat."

In 2011, the Department of Health and Senior Services reported 47 heat-related deaths in Missouri.

Remember these basic tips to protect you and your family during severe heat and heat emergencies:

  • Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
  • Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
  • Eat light, well-balanced meals at regular intervals.
  • Drink plenty of water and limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
  • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
  • Protect your face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Wear sunscreen.
  • Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day; use the buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks.
  • Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls and other community facilities.
  • Be aware of medications that may impair the body's response to heat, including antihistamines, tranquilizers and some medications for heart disease.

To find the cooling center nearest you, please visit MO.gov


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