How to keep cool during the heat wave

INDIANAPOLIS (Press Release) - The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an alert for the return of hot weather this weekend. NWS is predicting the heat index will at least approach 100 degrees daily for the next several days. This will increase the chance of heat related illnesses. The Division of Homeland Security is encouraging people to take precautions against the heat by staying properly hydrated, limiting extraneous activity or exercise, staying inside air conditioning as much as possible, and utilizing your local resources such as libraries, shopping centers, and community centers. If possible, stay with family or friends who have an air conditioned home.

"Common sense is the key, so keep it simple”, said EMS Chief Dr. Charles Miramonti, He also also suggests the following:
• Pay close attention to young children and the elderly
• Listen to that little voice that says to take it easy
• Limit your exposure to the elements
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Headache, weakness, and nausea are early signs of heat exhaustion. Seek shelter from the heat and drink plenty of fluids. Confusion, vomiting, and changes in mental status are signs of heat stroke. Seek medical attention immediately.

The Division of Homeland Security will be monitoring the situation with our partners at the Marion County Health Department, the Red Cross and various other service agencies. If temperatures and the heat index do climb to potentially hazardous levels, and it is determined that the need exists for additional community resources, the city will activate the emergency “extreme heat plan,” which would extend hours of operation for parks facilities and community centers, set-up temporary shelters and cooling centers, initiate additional community outreach and provide other assistance to local residents. Again, if extraordinary events require the establishment of extended hour or 24 hour shelters the American Red Cross will assist in staffing the community centers and/or activate their own shelter sites.

Below is a list of community centers, spray parks and other facilities available throughout the city that offer options for residents to stay cool and avoid the heat.

COMMUNITY CENTERS
Concord Center – 1310 S. Meridian
Flanner House – 2424 Dr. MLK Blvd.
Forest Manor – 5603 E 38th St
George T. Goodwin Center – 3935 Mooresville Rd, 46221
John Boner – 2236 E. 10th St
Martin Luther King – 40 W. 40th
Mary Rigg Neighborhood Center – 1920 W. Morris St, 46221
Southeast MSC – 901 Shelby St

SPRAY GROUNDS
Andrew Ramsey Park – 310 W 12th St
Arsenal Park – 1400 E 46th St
Broadway Park & 61st – 6051 N. Broadway St
Bowman Park – 3600 Auburn Rd
Centennial & Groff Park – 2300 N Centennial Ave
Christian Park – 1200 English Ave
Clayton & LaSalle – 401 S Lasalle St.
Douglass Park & Pool – 2759 Dr. Andrew J. Brown
Ellenberger Park – 5301 E. St. Clair St.
Haughville Park – 500 Belleview Place
Municipal Gardens – 1831 Lafayette Rd
Washington Park – 3130 E 30th St
Willard Park & Pool – 1700 E Washington St
Windsor Village Park – 2501 N Kenyon St

Individuals going to the sites are encouraged to contact the Marion County Public Health Dapartment Call Center for current hours of operation for each site, as they may change throughout the week.  The Call Center number is 221-2415.

Additional sites include libraries and shopping malls open to the public.

For additional information visit www.indy.gov/dhs and www.indy.gov/dps .