Waukesha Under Heat Advisory Friday

Still waiting for summer to get here? July 1 is apparently the day. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory that is in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Friday.

Temperatures will be in the mid- to upper-90s with the heat index between 100 and 110 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.

The National Weather Service is warning that the hot, humid weather could cause heat-related problems for those working or spending times outdoors or for those without an air conditioner.

The National Weather Services notes that those taking certain medications, very young children and elderly people will be vulnerable to the hot conditions.

Joe Hoffman, battalion chief for the Waukesha Fire Department, said people should stay indoors or find ways to stay cool in the shade during the hot days.

“People can avoid heat exhaustion by trying to stay indoors in air conditioning,” Hoffman said.

If people do not have air conditioning, Hoffman suggested people go to places such as the movie theater, a city pool or the library. The pool hours for Horeb Spring Aquatic Center and Buchner Pool

If people choose to take their children swimming, they should designate someone to be constantly watching the children, Hoffman said.

To avoid heat exhaustion people should also drink plenty of water and fluids with electrolytes, such as Gatorade. A chart of information provided by the Waukesha Fire Department that shows the amount of rest and water that is recommended is included in the photo section of this article.

To prevent sun exposure, Hoffman said people should:

• Avoid the sun from peak hours – between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Remember to use sunscreen
• Wear sun glasses and light, UV-protective clothing
• Seek cooler environments for 10 minutes every hour.

Sun exposure can be reduced by 60 percent by avoiding the peak hours, according to the battalion chief.

Additionally, people should be alert to the signs of heat stroke, Hoffman said. Uncontrolled heat exhaustion can lead to delirium, convulsions, brain damage and death.

Took cool down a person who has heat exhaustion, place ice packs underneath their armpits and place cool water on the back of their necks.

Signs for heat exhaustion are:

• No sweating
• High body temperature
• Rapid pulse