Expected prolonged hot, humid weather can lead to heat related illnesses

Per the National Weather Service a large area of high pressure will keep a hot and humid air mass over southern Wisconsin into Friday.  Peak heat indices are expected this afternoon through Thursday. 

When the temperature, along with the humidity climbs, and remains for prolonged periods, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are possible.

To keep you and your family safe the Health Department recommends:

• Slow down (reduce outdoor activities, especially during the hottest part of the day– 11 am to 2 pm)
• Dress for summer (wear lightweight, light-colored clothing)
• Drink plenty of water, or other non-alcoholic, caffeine free fluids (check with your doctor if you are on diuretic medications, or have a problem with fluid retention)
• Never leave a child, disabled adult, elderly person, or a pet in a car even for a few minutes.  Temperatures can rise to life threatening levels within minutes.
• To keep your home cool
  • Avoid using your stove or oven.
  • Use your dishwasher and dryer at night.
  • Keep windows, shades, or drapes closed.
  • Set ceiling fans in a counterclockwise position to pull cool air up.
  • If you have an air-conditioner, turn it on early so your home is cool before the hot weather arrives.
  • Bringing air in from the outside with fans is not effective when the heat index is above 90; use them to blow hot air outside instead.
• Other tips to stay cool:
  • Spend some time in an air conditioned facility during the worst of the heat (this could be a public building such as a  library, senior center, shopping mall, or grocery store)
  • Sit in a bath tub containing cool water, or dampen a shirt and have a fan blow towards you.
  • Don’t get too much sun.  Use at least a SPF 30 Sunscreen (sunburn makes it more difficult to cool off).

Keep in mind that infants, the elderly, people with heart or lung problems, overweight person, and those who work outside are at a higher risk for heat –related illness.  Also, certain medications disrupt our body’s thermostats, and make it more difficult to cool down, especially those taken for mental or movement disorders, allergies, depression and heart or circulatory problems.  Frequently contact you neighbors, and others you know who are at a greater risk, and help them obtain relief from the heat and humidity.

If anyone in your family depends on electrical medical equipment, call your electric service provider and ask them to note it on your account in case of a power outage.  Alliant Energy can be reached at 1-800-255-4268, WE Energies at 1-800-242-9137.

Listen to your TV, radio, or a NOAA Weather Radio for forecasts, and outlook statements. For questions regarding how to be safe in extreme heat conditions please call the Health Department at 920-929-3085 or 1-800-547-3640.