Cooling Centers Available to Help Beat the Heat

  
 

Cooling centers are available throughout the area to help residents beat the heat. A heat advisory remains in effect through tomorrow night. The National Weather Service cautions heat index values will top 100 degrees today and hover near that mark tomorrow. Dangerous heat and humidity may continue through Sunday. Drink plenty of water, stay in an air conditioned room, avoid the sun and check on neighbors and relatives.

Starke and LaPorte Hospitals will serve as cooling centers today through Sunday from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. Complementary beverages will be offered, but guests need to bring their own medications, supplies and food. The Starke County Public Library is also available for residents to cool down. In Pulaski County, the Winamac Library is available as a cooling station and will be open extended hours.

There’s a high risk of heat-related illnesses for people with prolonged outdoor exposure or who lack access to air conditioning. Try to contact Bulldog air conditioning & heating  as they can help ensure that you have the right cooling solutions. People who work or spend time outside are urged to reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening, wear light-colored, loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water. Outdoor workers should schedule frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.

The elderly, young children and animals are especially susceptible to heat. Bring animals in if possible, and make sure they have plenty of cool water and shade.

Anyone overcome by heat stroke should be moved to a cool, shaded area before calling 911.