As families get ready to celebrate the Fourth of July, Boone County Emergency Management is reminding residents to make heat safety part of their holiday plans.
Temperatures are expected to reach the low 90s throughout the week and into the holiday weekend, with heat index values topping 100 degrees. Warm overnight temperatures will also make it harder to cool down after a hot day outside.
Whether you’re heading to a cookout, watching fireworks, spending the day at the park or working outside, a few simple steps can help you stay safe in the heat.
“The best way to stay safe in extreme heat is to plan ahead and listen to your body,” says Kevin Vogelpohl, Boone County Emergency Management Director. “Drinking water, taking breaks and finding a cool place to rest can make a big difference. We also encourage everyone to check in on family, friends and neighbors who may need a little extra help from the heat.”
Simple ways to beat the heat
Overheating can happen faster than you think. These simple tips can help you stay safe if you’re spending time outside this week.
• Drink water often, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Spend time in air conditioning whenever you can.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Plan outdoor activities for the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
• Take breaks in the shade or indoors.
• Check on older adults, neighbors or anyone who may need help staying cool.
Keeping kids Cool
Kids heat up faster than adults, especially when they’re busy having fun outside. Here’s how you can help:
• Bring plenty of water and encourage them to drink often.
• Build in breaks from the sun so they have time to cool down.
• Watch for signs they’re getting too hot, like headaches, dizziness, muscle cramps or unusual tiredness.
• Use sunscreen and a hat to help protect them from the sun.
Never leave a child alone in a parked car. The temperature inside can become dangerous in just a few minutes.
Don’t forget about your pets
If it’s too hot for you, it’s even hotter for your pets. A few simple steps can help keep them safe and comfortable.
• Leave pets at home whenever possible. If you need to run errands, it’s safer for them to stay home than wait in a parked vehicle.
• Make sure they always have plenty of fresh water and access to shade.
• Walk pets early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
• Avoid walking on hot pavement that can burn their paws.
Working outside?
Whether you’re working on the job, mowing the lawn or tackling projects around the house, the heat can catch up with you quickly. Here’s a few ways to stay safe:
• Drink water throughout the day.
• Take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and a hat.
• Save the most strenuous work for the morning or evening when possible.
• Pay attention to how you’re feeling and check on others working nearby
Boone County Public Works crews spend long hours outdoors maintaining roads, bridges and other County infrastructure. During periods of extreme heat, our crews take extra steps to help reduce heat exposure and keep everyone safe.
“The heat is something we take extremely seriously,” said Tom Logan, Boone County Public Works Director. “We schedule the most demanding work during the cooler parts of the day, build in extra water breaks and make sure our crews are looking out for one another.”
Know the signs of heat illness
Symptoms of heat illness may start suddenly or develop over time, especially during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Heat illness
symptoms may include:
• Heavy sweating
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Muscle cramps
• Feeling weak or unusually tired
• Nausea
If you or someone you know begins showing these signs, move to a cool place, loosen or remove extra clothing and sip cool water if they are awake and alert. If symptoms become severe, call 911 immediately.
Extreme heat doesn’t have to put your summer plans on hold. By planning ahead, staying hydrated and looking out for one another, we can all enjoy a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend.
Boone County Fiscal Court