[Press Release] : Press Release

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 21, 2005

CONTACT: Steve Hollis
     (573) 874-7356

Boone County seniors may qualify for heat relief:
all residents reminded to take precautions against heat-related illness	
								
	(COLUMBIA, MO) - Current temperatures and excessive heat are predicted to continue into the weekend as daily highs approach 100. The heat index will range from 105 to 115 over the next few days. These conditions can be very dangerous if residents do not observe guidelines to avoid heat-related illness. 
	The senior citizen population can be particularly at risk because many are living on a fixed income and do not feel they can afford to cool their home. The Columbia/Boone County Health Department would like to remind residents that utility assistance is available to those who are:
	*	age 60 years or older,
	*	have low to moderate income,
	*	and/or have a permanent disability.
	Interested residents should contact the Columbia/Boone County Health Department at (573) 874-7594 for more information.

	To prevent heat-related illness:
	*	Be aware of the warning signs of heat-related illness, such as light- 		
		headedness, mild nausea or confusion, sleepiness or profuse sweating.
	*	Increase your fluid intake; drink more liquid than your thirst indicates.
	*	Drink non-alcoholic and caffeine-free liquids, such as water and juices.
	*	Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
	*	When not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start 	
		slowly and pick up the pace gradually. Rest frequently in a shady area.
	*	Spend time in an air-conditioned place; if not at home, then such public 	
		places as libraries, supermarkets, shopping malls and movie theaters.
	*	Do not rely on fans as your primary cooling device during a heat wave. 
	*	Schedule outdoor activities carefully, preferably before noon or in the 	
		evening.
	*	When working in the heat, monitor the condition of your co-workers and 	
		have someone do the same for you.
	*	Monitor those at high risk, such as the elderly, infants and children up to 4 	
		years of age, someone who is overweight or someone on medication.
	*	Ask your physician whether you are at a particular risk because of
		medication.
	*	Do not leave infants, children or pets unattended in a parked car or other 
		hot environment.
	Additional information on preventing heat-related illness can be found at www.dhss.mo.gov.


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