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DHS offers tips to keep cool this weekend

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Division of Homeland Security wants people to be precautions with high temperatures in this weekend’s forecast.

The National Weather Service predicts temperatures will be in the low 90s. Heat index values may reach up to 105 degrees.

“Hot, dry skin, an absence of sweat and a rapid and strong pulse, are all signs of heat stroke. If you have elderly family members, friends or neighbors, be sure to check in on them to make sure they are keeping cool, especially if they live alone,” said Homeland Security Chief Gary Coons. “Summer Celebration is going on right now with a lot of outdoor activities. We want to make sure concertgoers attending tonight’s Music Heritage Festival are prepared and drink plenty of water before and during this special event.”

DHS offered the following tips for keeping cool:

  • Stay indoors in air conditioning as much as possible.
  • If you do go outside, stay in the shade.
  • If your home is not air conditioned, spend at least two hours daily at an air conditioned mall, library or other public place.
  • Wear sunscreen outside, along with loose fitting light colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
  • Drink water regularly even if you are not thirsty. Limit alcohol, and sugary drinks, which speed dehydration.
  • Never leave children or pets alone in the car.
  • Avoid exertion during the hottest part of the day, which is the middle of the afternoon.
  • Take a cool shower or bath.
  • Be a good neighbor, check on elderly and people with disabilities in your community who may need assistance keeping cool.
  • If you suspect that someone has heat stroke, please contact 911 immediately.

You can also keep cool at Indy Parks with aquatic centers and spraygrounds.