During this week of extreme temperatures Fire Chief Simpkins is urging citizens to take extra precautions.  Heat is the number one weather-related killer, but by following these simple tips you will be sure to keep your family and friends safe.

Safety Tips:

• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
• Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
• Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation.
• Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• Drink plenty of water. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
• Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
• Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.
• Do not leave children, adults, or pets unattended in parked vehicles.
  • Even on a mild day the temperature in a car can increase rapidly, and leaving the windows down does not significantly decrease the heating rate.
• Cover household windows that receive sun with drapes, shades, curtains, awnings.

Remind all neighbors, coworkers, family, and friends of these tips to help protect those you know from suffering a heat related disorder.