FOX19.com and FOX19 News, weather, traffic, and sports for Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky | Heat Alert Aug. 8-10

Heat Alert Aug. 8-10

The Cincinnati Health Department and the Northern Kentucky Health Department have declared a heat alert for August 8-10.

A heat alert indicates that the predicted temperature or heat index exceeds 95 degrees.  Temperatures at this level are potentially dangerous and put individuals at risk for heat related illness if the proper precautions are not followed.

It is important to check on elderly and individuals with illnesses that decrease their ability to respond to extreme heat (heart and kidney disease, high blood pressure, recent stroke, diarrhea, mental illness).  Infants and small children are also at greater risk to experience heat related illness.  People who work outdoors, such as construction workers and roofers, should be aware of the dangerously high temperatures and should drink plenty of water even when not thirsty.

Cincinnati Recreation Centers will be open during normal hours to serve as "Cool Centers" for heat relief.  They will provide a cool comfortable place to sit and rest that will allow citizens to get out of the heat.  To locate a Cincinnati Recreation Center close to you visit http://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/crc/pages/-5672-/

Northern Kentucky Cool Centers can be found here: http://www.fox19.com/Global/story.asp?S=10559930&nav=menu63_1_1

To avoid heat stress or heat related illness, citizens are advised to take the following precautions:

• Drink plenty of water, even if not thirsty.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages; alcohol can increase a person's risk to heat related illnesses.
• Decrease physical activity such as yard work or exercise. Activities should occur on the morning or in the evening. Stay in the shade as much as possible.
• Individuals with chronic health problems, such as heart disease or lung problems, should minimize activities because the heat will add additional stress.
• Extra caution should be taken for the elderly and young infants and children to assure that they are protected from the heat.
• Individuals on medications should check with their doctor or pharmacist to see if the medicines put them at increased risk of heat related illness.
• Check on those who may need assistance.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose, cotton clothing.
• Eat light meals.
• Adjust blinds, shades, and awnings to keep the sun out.
• Children and pets should not be left unattended in closed vehicles. Temperatures quickly rise to dangerous levels.
• Use air conditioning, or spend time in a cool basement. Many facilities such as libraries, malls, movie theaters and other public areas are air-conditioned.
• Keep in mind fans are only effective when they are bringing in cool air. When the relative humidity is high, the evaporative cooling of sweat is diminished.