Wicomico County officials release tips for keeping safe in the heat

Wicomico County Health officials are releasing tips for residents to keep safe in the extreme heat on Thursday.

According to officials, a heat wave is set to grip our region in the next few days. Temperatures will be in the upper 90s with the heat index reaching over 100 degrees. Infants, young children, young athletes, obese people, those older than 65 years of age, and those persons with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or a mental illness are at a higher risk for a heat related illness.

A heat related illness can become life threatening very fast. The Wicomico County Health Department urges everyone to practice these cool safety tips:
•    Look for air-conditioned environments including malls, libraries and public places.  Stay inside.
•    Set outdoor activities before 10:00 am and after 6:00 pm.
•    Take a cool bath or shower.
•    Cut short direct exposure to the sun, if you must be outdoors, stay in the shade.
•    Stay hydrated – regularly drink water or other nonalcoholic fluids.
•    Eat light, cool, easy-to-digest foods such as fruit or salads.
•    Limit using the stove or oven to keep the house cooler. 
•    Check on others; co-workers, the elderly, and those living alone. 
•    Wear loose fitting, light-colored clothes.
•    Bring pets indoors.  If they have to stay outside, make sure they have shade and plenty of clean, fresh water.

Officials say that it is likely that a cooling center will open in Wicomico County on Friday. Officials will let the public know as soon as information becomes available. For up to date information and stay cool tips, people can go here, says Lori Brewster, Health Officer.