Temperatures are still hot: heat safety tips

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) Officials in Indiana are asking residents to be aware that temperatures are still high and potentially dangerous.

Despite the recent drop in heat, The Indiana Department of Homeland Security is advising Hoosiers not to be complacent as temperatures are still high at 85 degrees.

The Indiana DHS warns that inside cars, the temperatures can quickly rise to the level of a kitchen oven. Children, pets, and the elderly should never be left alone inside a vehicle no matter the circumstance; anyone is susceptible to heat related illness and death.

The Indiana DHS has the following tips for the warm weather:

Tips for staying safe in warm weather

• Wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing.
• Drink plenty of water (avoid alcoholic or carbonated beverages.)
• If air conditioning is not available at home, try to spend some time each day in an air conditioned public facility such as a library, shopping center, community center, theatre, etc. Even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help the human body stay cooler. Check locally to see if there are any heat-relief shelters.

Symptoms of Heat Related Illness

• Muscle cramps
• Body temperature over 102°F
• Flushed looking appearance
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Faint feeling
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Unresponsiveness, or seizures

Someone suffering from heat related illness should be moved to a cool place to rest and drink water or a sports drink (nothing carbonated). Cool, wet washcloths or icepacks will help with recovery. If there is no improvement, the body temperature won’t go down, or the person won’t take fluids, go to the emergency room immediately or call 911.

For more heat safety tips, visit  GetPrepared.in.gov .