How to prepare for the blistering heat in Lincoln
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Officials are warning people about the dangers of the heat in Lincoln this week.
Extreme heat is the No. 1 weather-related killer.
Even a short amount of time outdoors can be deadly.
A heat advisory is in place for a large portion of southern Nebraska through Thursday evening, with high temperatures and humidity creating dangerous conditions.
“If you are required to go outside, try to avoid those peak times of the day when the sun is going to be its hottest, when the humidity is going to be its highest, and recognize your own limitations,” said Jim Davidsaver, the director of the Lincoln-Lancaster County Emergency Management Agency.
Heat exhaustion can quickly turn into a heatstroke.
Dizziness, heavy sweating and a fast heart rate are some of the signs you should look out for.
These temperatures take a heavy toll on young children, the elderly and those with health conditions.
Make sure that if you need to spend time outside, you have plenty of water.
Davidsaver said wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing; a hat; sunglasses; and sunscreen can help protect you.
“As many of those variables that you can factor into your plan, the better,” he said. “Each on its own only has so much impact, but when you start to layer those things up – your preparedness, your prevention – hopefully will really minimize the chance that you’ll suffer the ill effects of extreme heat.”
Cars can quickly trap heat as well.
It only takes 10 minutes for temperatures to jump 20 degrees inside of a car.
And children can’t regulate their body temperatures as well as adults, so it can become fatal in a matter of minutes.
Davidsaver suggested putting your left shoe in the back seat with your kid because the second your foot hits the hot pavement, you’ll realize you’re missing something.
He said to keep in mind that other people around you might need help as well.
“If you’re aware of a neighbor who may be elderly or may have some medical complications that may be aggravated, may be worsened during times of extreme heat, be a good neighbor,” he said.
Here in Lincoln, the city has safe, cool places to go if you or someone you know doesn’t have somewhere to stay.
City libraries, malls and community centers are good places to go during the day for relief.
Some local pools are even open for extended hours.
Visit the city website for more details.
