Ithaca College

The Tompkins County Department of Emergency Response has issued the following message regarding the current heat wave:

With high temperatures and high humidity forecast for the next several days, local officials are urging residents to take the steps necessary to protect themselves from the danger of heat-related illness.

Over the next few days, the heat index (a measure of heat and humidity) will likely be near or in the 100s, with the hottest days expected Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The National Weather Service has predicted that the hot, humid weather will last through Sunday or Monday.

The Tompkins County Department of Emergency Response urges all residents—and especially those who are at high risk for health problems—to stay indoors as much as possible and limit their activity and sun exposure. Officials provide the following advice:

• If you do not have air conditioning, try to spend much of the day in an air-conditioned public building, such as libraries, movie theaters, shopping malls and other community facilities.

• Drink plenty of fluids, but stay away from those containing alcohol, caffeine or large amounts of sugar.

• If you’re swimming to cool off, be sure to restrict your swimming to safe, designated areas.

• Be sure to check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, especially senior citizens, those with chronic illnesses and families with infants and young children.

• Protect your pets – keep them inside, with air-conditioning (or if your home is not air-conditioned, with multiple fans) and make sure they have plenty of water.

• Prepare for temporary power outages ahead of time by assembling essential supplies such as flashlights, batteries, bottled water and food.

More information on how to protect yourself from high heat and humidity can be found at the Tompkins Ready web site. Direct link to “heat emergencies” section: www.tompkinsready.org/disaster/heat.htm.

Individuals are also warned to avoid swimming or wading in local gorge creeks, since doing so can be extremely dangerous or fatal. When walking in the gorges, please stay on established trails and avoid side paths that are not part of the trail system.

For further information regarding available non-emergency services during this heat wave, call 2-1-1.