Cooling center opened to give locals relief from record heat

Heat advisories are in effect this week for much of the eastern half of the United States. High temperatures combined with high humidity will result in heat indices of from 105 to 110 degrees. The Lincoln Center will serve as a cooling center for local residents from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. each day. Those who need transportation may call 706- 359-3116.

To help local residents cope with the dangerous, sweltering heat, the Lincoln County Department of Public Safety has announced that The Lincoln Center, located at 160 May Avenue, will serve as a cooling center from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

Those in need of transportation may call 706-359-3116.

The wave of early August heat is due in part to an intensifying ridge of high pressure in the atmosphere's middle levels. This ridge is producing light, southerly winds that are pumping in humid air and ample sunshine.

The hot weather conditions and heat advisories are expected to continue through much of the week, stated a spokesman from the National Weather Service. A few scattered showers might bring a little relief in the afternoon through the weekend, but they will be few and far between.

According to WeatherBug meteorologists, the Southeast will not get a break from the heat because the slowmoving cold front diving south out of the Great Lakes will stay to the north all week.

To prevent heat emergencies, local residents are urged to:

.. Visit at-risk adults and pay close attention to babies and children.

The following symptoms are associated with heat-related illnesses: hot, red skin or cool and moist skin; small or dilated pupils; headache; nausea; dizziness; and vomiting.

.. Limit time spent outdoors if you absolutely must go out. Try to rest often in shady areas.

.. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Likewise, apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. The most effective products say "broad spectrum" or "UVA/UVB protection" on the labels.

.. Drink more fluids than normal, regardless of your activity level. Don't wait until you are thirsty to drink. However, stay away from fluids that are alcoholic or contain a lot of sugar - these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks because they can cause stomach cramps.

Nevertheless, if your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask him how much you should drink while the weather is hot.

.. Stay indoors in an air-conditioned place, if possible. If you don't have air conditioning then go to a public building or cooling center.

.. Wear light-weight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

.. Never leave anyone in a parked vehicle, open or closed.

.. Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein, which increases metabolic heat.

.. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.