Some ways to beat the heat this weekend

DAVE MOSIER/independent editor

It’s gonna be a really hot weekend, and local residents need to be prepared to keep safe from the problems caused by excessive heat.

The National Weather Service and Van Wert County Emergency Management Director Rick McCoy have both issued warnings that temperatures this weekend, expected to be in the 90s, with heat index numbers in the 100-degree area, could cause a number of health problems for local residents.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency has also issued a number of tips on how local residents can stay safe when temperatures are excessively high.

“A combination of high temperatures and high humidity can create a dangerous situation for you and your family,” said FEMA Region V Administrator Andrew Velasquez III. “Learn and put into practice the steps you should follow during periods of extreme heat. Remember to check in on family, friends, and neighbors — especially those who are elderly, disabled, or have functional needs to ensure they are safe.”

Extreme heat includes the possibility of heat-induced illnesses, including severe sunburns, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke.

Noting that the hottest heat of the summer so far is coming, McCoy recommends that area residents drink plenty of water while outside and protect pets and other animals.

McCoy said temperatures today will reach a high of 93 today, with high humidity and a heat index of 106, with a chance of a pop-up thunderstorm.

On Saturday, temperatures are expected to reach 92, with a heat index of 104, and a chance of a thunderstorm, while Sunday’s temperatures are expected to again reach 93, with a heat index of 105, with another chance of thunderstorms.

Temperatures early next week are predicted to be in the mid-80s, although with high humidity.

FEMA has also provided a number of tips to beat the heat this weekend. They include:

• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
• Consider spending the warmest part of the day in air-conditioned buildings.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning.
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day.
• Know the symptoms of heat-related illnesses and seek medical attention if your conditions are severe.

Other valuable tips can be obtained by downloading a free FEMA app at the Apple App Store or Google Play. The FEMA app teaches people what to do before, during, and after emergencies, with safety tips and weather alerts from the National Weather Service.