Summer Heat Expected To Hit Triple Digits

Hot and Potentially Dangerous Temps Expected

Oskaloosa, Iowa – The mercury may reach the 100 degree mark for the first time today and Thursday.

Even if the 100 degree mark is reached, it will fall short of the 110 degree record reached twice, once in 1918 and again in 1936.

The National Weather Service in Des Moines says, “If you plan on working or being outdoors on Wednesday, make sure that you drink plenty of water, wear loose fitting and light colored clothes, rest when you feel the need to take a break, and seek shade from time to time to cool off.  Also remember to check on the elderly and make sure that pets have adequate sources of water and shelter to prevent heat stress.“

Love Inc in Oskaloosa is looking for assistance in helping to keep others cool. They are still looking for people interested in donating fans, new or used, to help keep residents cool. It doesn’t matter what the age of the fan is, as long as it functions correctly.

Also needed are window air conditioners, as well. A few needs remain for persons that are under a doctor’s care and have been instructed to have air conditioning, but the individuals are unable to afford them. “We have a waiting list for air conditioners, and we just don’t have any,” said Saydie Basham, an intern with Love Inc.

“It seems like when we get these hot days, they come in and their dripping with sweat,” says Basham. Those in need range from mothers with children to the elderly. “If we have the resources, we’re more than willing to help them.”

People are not the only ones in need of fans, those 4 legged friends also need cooling. Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter is in need of some fans as well.

Mahaska Health Partnership’s Adult Nurse Practitioner Lisa Nelson, ARNP shared the following information on heat stroke.

What is Heat Stroke? “Heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature. The body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.”

What are the signs & symptoms?

• Body temperature above 103 degrees Fahrenheit
• Red, hot and dry skin (no sweat)
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Unconsciousness

When should you seek medical attention? Call emergency medical personnel as soon as you experience any of these signs because you may be dealing with a life-threatening emergency. Do the following while waiting for emergency assistance:

• Move to a shaded area or into air conditioning
• Cool down rapidly using whatever methods are available (get in a tub of cold water, take a cold shower, spray with a garden hose, etc.)
• Monitor your body temperature
• Do not drink fluids

Tips to avoid Heat Stroke

When working outside or in a situation where heat is a factor, use the following tips to avoid heat stroke.

• Drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages and increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level.
• People ages 65 and older, infants and children and people with chronic medical conditions are more at risk for getting heat stroke.
• Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat stroke. Spend time at public locations with air conditioning if you do not have access to air conditioning.
• Stay informed. Listen to local news and weather and plan accordingly.
• Wear appropriate clothing that is lightweight, light colored and loose-fitting.