Health Officials Urge Residents to Not Let Their Guard Down As Hot Weather Continues
Created on Sunday, 24 July 2011 14:59
Contact: Collette DuValle, 317-221-2463
The Marion County Public Health Department reports 14 individuals sought emergency department treatment for heat related illness Saturday, bringing the total number of heat wave patients to 91 since July 18. No heat related illness has been reported since midnight today.
Health officials are urging residents to remain cautious when outdoors. Although a slight break in the heat and humidity is forecast, temperatures are predicted to remain in the 90s through much of the week.
“We cannot let our guard down. We must limit strenuous outdoor activity, take frequent breaks in a cool location, drink water and be aware of the signs of heat illness for ourselves and those around us,” said Virginia A. Caine, M.D., director, Marion County Public Health Department.
Cooling centers remain open throughout the community today (Sunday). Churches, parks, shopping centers and other air-conditioned locations are available and should be used by those without access to a cool environment.
“Through the past week we have learned that all of us are vulnerable to heat illness. No matter our age or health condition, if we are not careful, the heat can quickly impact our health,” said Dr. Caine.
Health officials also ask that family, friends and neighbors continue to check on the welfare of elderly individuals, persons who are homebound and those who may have chronic illness.
Those wanting information about heat related illness, local cooling centers or other non-emergency heat related questions are encouraged to contact the Marion County Public Health Department cooling center at 221-2415 until 7 p.m. this evening. Calls after hours will be returned on Monday.
To date, the call center has received more than 240 calls.
Additional heat related information is available at www.mchd.com
