(WOIO) –
With forecasters predicting temperatures above 90 degrees, the City of Cleveland has activated its heat preparedness plan. City of Cleveland residents can beat the heat in any of the 15 designated recreation centers (click here for a list) today from 12:00 noon – 8:00 pm and tomorrow from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. In addition, city outdoor pools are open from 12:00 noon – 8:00 pm.
City of Cleveland Seniors will receive a message today through the City’s Wide Area Rapid Notification (WARN) system, advising them on how to keep cool in the heat. Click here for audio.
While some people are at greater risk than others anyone can suffer from heat related illnesses.
We also encourage residents to take the following precautions:
• Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Warning: If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask him how much you should drink while the weather is hot.
• Don’t drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar-these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps.
• Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library-even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.
• Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air- conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• NEVER leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle.
• Although any one at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Check regularly on:
• Infants and young children;
• People aged 65 or older;
• People who have a mental illness; an with heart disease or high blood pressure.
• Cut down on exercise. If you must exercise, drink two to four nonalcoholic fluids each hour. A sports beverage can replace the salt and min lose in sweat. Warning: If you are on a low-salt diet, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage. Remember the warning in the first “tip” too. Try to rest often in shady areas.
• Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunglasses and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher (the most effective products say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels.
http://www.19actionnews.com/story/18826219/city-of-cleveland-activates-heat-preparedness-plan
Article Courtesy of WOIO 19 Action News
