The Indiana Region of the American Red Cross is urging residents to take precautions as dangerously high temperatures are expected to impact the region this week. Experts warn that extreme heat can be deadly and knowing what to do to protect yourself and your loved ones could save a life.
The Red Cross is asking everyone to remember three critical actions: Stay Hydrated. Stay Cool. Stay Connected.
Drink a cup of water every 20 minutes — even if you don't feel thirsty. Sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic beverages should be avoided, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Athletes and outdoor workers face heightened risk and should take regular breaks in the shade, drinking a cup of water or a sports drink every 20 minutes.
Spend time in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible. If your home is too hot, head to a shopping mall, public library, or a local cooling center. Cool showers or baths can also help bring body temperature down. When heading outdoors, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colors to help your body regulate heat.
Check on friends, family, and neighbors — particularly older adults, people with chronic health conditions, outdoor workers, and athletes. Make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade at all times. If you need help, don't hesitate to ask for it.
Heat illness can escalate quickly, and recognizing the symptoms early is critical.
Heat cramps are signaled by heavy sweating and muscle pain. Stop activity immediately, rest in a cool place, and drink a cup of water or sports drink every 20 minutes. Seek medical attention if cramps last more than two hours or if you have heart problems.
Heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, cool and clammy skin, muscle cramps, dizziness, fainting, nausea, or vomiting. Rest in a cool area, loosen clothing, and apply a cool, wet cloth to the body. Seek medical help if vomiting occurs, symptoms don't improve within an hour, or if you have heart or kidney problems.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Signs include high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, confusion, headache, dizziness, fainting, nausea, or vomiting. Call 911 immediately. Move the person to a cooler location, remove excess clothing, and use a wet cloth or cool bath to lower body temperature while waiting for emergency help.
Former Roachdale Town Marshal sentenced to probation
Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance announces 2027 summer internship program
Gov. Braun extends tax filing deadline for Hoosiers impacted by August storms
Read your FEMA letter carefully
Road closure to impact U.S. 36 in Parke and Putnam counties
South Vermillion to honor fallen mom all season
BMV branches closed for Labor Day weekend
New traffic pattern to impact State Road 63 near Newport
Riddell National Bank makes new scoreboard reality for Parke Heritage
Riverton Parke to remember fallen player
Rockville man arrested after setting fires
Governor Braun delivers another month of gas savings for Hoosier families
$120M granted to Indiana to improve healthcare access
Find a cooling center near you with Indiana 211
2026 Indiana State Fair celebrates Hoosier spirit, summer fun and memories made
State health officials and emergency healthcare providers agree to discontinue routine hospital diversion
Heat Advisory in effect through Thursday evening
USDA offers disaster assistance to Ag producers in Indiana impacted by recent flooding
First Indiana human case of West Nile found in Allen County
Legendary 'Indiana Rangers' receive Presidential Unit Citation, Sagamore of the Wabash for Vietnam War heroism
