Marshall County EMA encourages all to stay safe in summer heat

Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at 6:04 PM

The calendar is about to turn from May to June, marking the start of meteorological summer! Marshall County Emergency Management Agency.

Director Jack Garner warns citizens to know the signs of heat exhaustion and stroke.

Many of us long for those hot summer days and all the fun activities that come with them. But prolonged exposure to summer heat can also be dangerous for everyone.

It is common for Marshall County to experience several heat waves during the summer with daily high temperatures above 90 degrees and heat indexes soaring to 100+ degrees. When extreme heat strikes, you should limit your outdoor time as much as possible. If you need to spend extended time under the sun, wear lighter clothing and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Leave time for breaks in the shade while working outside.

While keeping yourself safe should be your first priority, make sure you also care for those around you. Check on relatives and neighbors who may be more vulnerable to heat. NEVER leave pets or children unattended in vehicles.

Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke (see the graphic below). Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 911.

New to our awareness toolbox this year is the NWS HeatRisk! This map breaks down your location’s heat risk into five categories. NWS HeatRisk is a collaborative effort between the National Weather Service and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to improve messaging on extreme heat.

You can navigate the map and zoom into your location on the HeatRisk website. HeatRisk also forecasts conditions over the next seven days. Visit www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/heatrisk and familiarize yourself with its products!

As heat waves happen, make sure to check the Marshall County EMA Facebook page and download the Marshall County App for more current information, including forecasts and cooling center locations.

County EMA Director Garner says, "Stay cool this summer!"