(COLUMBIA, MO) -
As daily high temperatures are forecast above 90 degrees over the next couple of days, the Columbia/Boone County Department of Public Health and Human Services reminds Boone County residents about the dangers of summer heat.
Summer heat can take its toll on a person's health, especially the very young, the elderly and the chronically ill, because they are more vulnerable to the effects of high temperatures. These individuals perspire less and are more likely to take medications that can impair the body's response to heat and make them more sensitive.
Heat-related illness occurs when the body's temperature control system is overloaded. The body normally cools itself by sweating, but when the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat quickly. Very high body temperatures may damage vital organs and spur heat-related illness, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat strokes.
There are things residents can do to prevent heat related illnesses including:
- Dress for the heat and use a hat or umbrella to block the sun.
- Drink water and avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeine.
- Eat small meals and eat more often.
- Stay indoors with air-conditioning when possible.
- Take regular breaks during physical activity.
The most efficient way to beat the heat is to spend time in an air-conditioned area. Electric fans may be useful to increase comfort or to draw cool air into a home at night, but do not rely on a fan as a primary cooling device during a heat wave. Residents are also urged to check on elderly family members or neighbors regularly during this time. Never leave children or household pets unattended in hot environments without air-conditioning, including unsupervised vehicles, and watch for signs and symptoms of dehydration.
Additionally, the Columbia/Boone County Department of Public Health and Human Services coordinates a network of warming and cooling centers in the community. Residents are reminded of several locations in Columbia that are available to those who need shelter from the extreme heat.
Cooling Centers are available to the general public during the building's normal business hours. The public is allowed access to public areas, such as lobbies, restrooms, drinking fountains, etc. Columbia's cooling centers include:
- ARC (Activity and Recreation Center) at 1707 West Ash Street - 573-874-7700
- Armory Sports and Community Center at 701 East Ash Street - 573-874-7466
- Boone County Government Center at 801 East Walnut - 573-886-4305
- Columbia/Boone County Department of Public Health and Human Services at 1005 West Worley - 573-874-7488
- Columbia Public Library at 100 West Broadway - 573-443-3161
- Salvation Army at 1108 West Ash Street - 573-442-3229
- Salvation Army Harbor House at 602 North Ann - 573-442-1984
- St. Francis House at 901 Rangeline - 573-875-4913
Official Shelters provide sleeping accommodations. These locations may or may not include meals. Columbia's official shelters include:
- New Life Evangelistic Center (for men) at 901 Wilkes Blvd. - 573-875-0603
- Rainbow House (for children/youth) at 1611 Towne Dr. - 573-474-3558
- Salvation Army Harbor House at 602 North Ann - 573-442-1984
- St. Francis House (for men) at 901 Rangeline - 573-875-4913
- True North (for victims of domestic violence) - 573-875-1369
- Welcome Home (for veterans) at 1206 Rangeline - 573-443-8001
For more information, please visit the City of Columbia website at www.CoMo.gov/Health.
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