Local Health Officials Encouraging Residents to Stay Cool

Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) - It will feel like an oven in the Rochester area Friday as temps will climb into the 90’s and unlike the May heatwave, it will be humid. The combination of heat and humidity will push heat index readings well over 100 degrees.

It will remain very warm Saturday.

Due to the hot and humid weather, Rochester Public Transit is offering free rides both days.  RPT says the free service “will allow residents who need transportation an easy method to get to a cool place.  Just tell the bus driver you are taking the free offer for “A Cool Place to Be.”

Residents are also reminded there is free swimming at Rochester’s Foster-Arend beach. The city’s two swimming pools are also lowering admission by $1 per ticket Friday.

The ice rink at the Rochester Recreation Center will be available Friday for people to go sit and relax.

Health officials encourage residents to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and utilize air-conditioning. If air-conditioning is not available, seek public buildings during the heat of the day such as libraries and community centers, malls, and movie theaters.

Quick Tips:

Do:

Use air conditioning or spend time in air-conditioned locations
Take a cool bath or shower
Minimize direct exposure to the sun
Limit your time outdoors, including activities such as sports, lawn mowing, and home improvement projects.
Take frequent breaks if you must be outside
Stay hydrated – drink water or nonalcoholic fluids
Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes
Check on your neighbors, friends and family members – especially those who are older and /or with health issues

Don’t:

Leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows rolled down, even for a few minutes
Drink alcohol
Eat heavy, hot or hard-to-digest foods

The OSHA Heat Safety app is an excellent way for individuals and employers to stay current on heat conditions, signs & symptoms, first aid, and more details about heat illness prevention:  https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/heatillness/heat_index/heat_app.html

Anyone can be overcome by extreme heat, but some people are at higher risk than others. They include the elderly, the very young, and people with mental illness and chronic diseases. Signs of heat-related illness vary but can include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, and fainting.  Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which can cause death or permanent disability unless treated immediately. Symptoms of heat stroke include an extremely high body temperature (above 103°F); red, hot, and dry skin; rapid, strong pulse; nausea, confusion, and unconsciousness.

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