By MIKE KRAFCIK
6 News Reporter
KNOXVILLE (WATE) - With the temperatures forecast to jump above the 100 degree mark for three days, Knox agencies are busy preparing for extreme heat.
Many spent the day cooling off Wednesday, as Thursday is expected to be first day of a heatwave in East Tennessee.
"Heat stroke, heat cramps, the level of heat we're expecting in this area can take anyone down," said Boyd Romines, CEO of the East Tennessee Region American Red Cross.
His chapter of the Red Cross is on high alert for the next few days. The organization is ready to set up cooling shelters, if needed.
"This is a situation where people and families really have to take care of themselves, first and foremost," said Romines.
As always, the heat is especially troubling for the very young and the elderly.
The Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee delivered donated fans to elderly residents Wednesday through its energy assistance program.
"It could save lives and prevent heat exhaustion and prevent other medical ailments and problems," said Rachel Gentry, volunteer coordinator of the CAC's Project Live.
Gentry says many elderly people who have low incomes don't adapt well to life in such hot temperatures.
"They're worried about their finances, so they're not making any changes in their daily activities, so they're not opening windows," Gentry said.
The Red Cross is asking people to limit outdoor activities throughout the heatwave, which could last into next week.
"This is a great excuse to stay indoors and stay cool for the next couple of days, stay hydrated, drink lots of fluids and juices," said Romines.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 400 Americans die each year due to sweltering heat.
Here are some Red Cross heatwave safety tips:
- Prepare. Discuss heat safety precautions with members of your household. Have a plan for what to do if the power goes out.
- Dress for the heat. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun's rays. It's also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella.
- Stay hydrated. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
- Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.
- Slow down and avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4:00 and 7:00. Take frequent breaks.
- Stay indoors when possible. If air-conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember that electric fans do not cool, they simply circulate the air.
- Be a good neighbor. During heatwaves, check on family, friends and neighbors who are elderly or ill and those who do not have air conditioning. Check on your animals frequently, too, to make sure they're not suffering from the heat.
- Learn Red Cross first aid and CPR/AED.
"Heat stroke, heat cramps, the level of heat we're expecting in this area can take anyone down," said Boyd Romines, CEO of the East Tennessee Region American Red Cross.
The Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee delivered donated fans to elderly residents.
