With a temperatures expected to top 100 degrees throughout the weekend, Rowan County Emergency Services and the Red Cross are preparing to open a “cooling shelter” for residents with special needs.
Residents who need the facility can call 211 for more information and directions.
The National Weather Service forecasts a high temperature today of 102 in Rowan County, with highs Saturday and Sunday also predicted to reach triple digits. Monday’s high will be near 100.
The Emergency Management Division of Emergency Services and the Elizabeth Hanford Dole Chapter of the American Red Cross are standing by to operate the cooling shelter.
Emergency management officials recommend that during this heat wave, no person or pet should be left unattended in a vehicle. Temperatures inside vehicles can rapidly climb to levels well above the outside temperature.
Here are a few heat-beating tips for individuals and families:
• If possible, stay out of the sun. When in the sun, wear sunscreen (at least SPF 15) and a hat to protect your face and head.
• Use an air conditioner if you have one. Set the thermostat no lower than 78 degrees.
• If you do not have an air conditioner, keep rooms well ventilated with open windows and fans. Consider going to a public pool, air-conditioned store, mall or movie theater.
• Fans work best at night, when they can bring in cooler air from outside.
• Make a special effort to check on your neighbors during a heat wave, especially if they are seniors, young children, and people with special needs. Many older citizens live alone and could suffer unnecessarily in the heat because they are isolated from friends and family.
• Seniors and others who may be sensitive to extreme heat should contact friends, neighbors, or relatives at least twice a day during a heat wave.
• Drink fluids — particularly water — even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid beverages containing alcohol, caffeine or high amounts of sugar.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose clothing that covers as much of your skin as possible.
• Avoid strenuous activity, especially during the sun’s peak hours, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you must engage in strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, usually in the morning between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m.
• Cool showers or baths may be helpful, but avoid extreme temperature changes. Never take a shower immediately after becoming overheated; extreme temperature changes may make you ill, nauseated, or dizzy.