A sweltering heat wave is expected to plague much of the state this weekend.
Temperatures are forecast in the upper 90s for most of the weekend, but the humidity is expected to make it feel much hotter.
In central Mississippi, the heat index is expected to range between 105 – 110 degrees.
Experts offer the following tips for staying cool and safe during a heat wave:
- Slow down: reduce, eliminate or reschedule strenuous activities until the coolest time of the day. Children, seniors and anyone with health problems should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.
- Dress for summer. Wear lightweight, loose fitting, light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight.
- Drink plenty of water (not very cold), non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty. If you are on a fluid restrictive diet or have a problem with fluid retention, consult a physician before increasing consumption of fluids.
- Check on older, sick, or frail people who may need help responding to the heat.
- Touch a child’s safety seat and safety belt before using it to ensure it’s not too hot before securing a child.
- Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows down, even for just a minute.
