With forecasters predicting temperatures above 90 degrees, the City of Cleveland has activated its heat preparedness plan.
City recreation centers designated as “Cooling Centers” include Clark, Estabrook, Gunning, Earle B. Turner, John F. Kennedy, Halloran, Stella Walsh and Zelma-George. Please call your nearest recreation center to ask if they are a “cooling center”. Residents can visit any of the outdoor city pools Wednesday-Sunday from noon until 8 PM. Indoor pools are open Monday-Friday.
Some city playgrounds have spray basins which are like giant water sprinklers. These are turned on when the temperature reaches 80 degrees.
All residents can keep cool by following these important tips:
• 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; and
• Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure.
read full story
article courtesy of 19ActionNews.com
