St. Louis, MO  (KTRS)  Dangerous heat continues in the region.

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning  through 8 p.m. Saturday. This means temperatures will soar near or above triple digits, with heat index values up to 113 degrees.

Cooling centers have been set up throughout the region to help those without air conditioning escape the extreme heat. You can find a cooling center by calling the United Way at 2-1-1.  A list of cooling centers is also available on the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Service’s website at https://ogi.oa.mo.gov/DHSS/coolingCenter/index.html.

Meanwhile, the City of St. Louis Health Department is urging the public to take precautions to prevent heat related illnesses.

Heat Related Health and Safety Tips for People:

 Avoid poorly ventilated areas and prolonged work in the sun.

 Keep plenty of fluids on hand and try to stay in, or take frequent breaks in an air conditioned environment.

 Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

 Wear light weight loose fitting clothing.

 Never leave children unattended in a vehicle. Check the backseat. During extreme heat vehicle temperatures can reach lethal levels in a matter of minutes.

 Continuously check on family members, neighbors, elderly, chronically ill, and friends. If they have air conditioning available, encourage them to use it.

 Replace Salt and Minerals: Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body that need to be replaced. A sports drink can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat.

 If you are on a low-salt diet, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage or taking salt tablets. 

The health department is also reminding the public to take precautions for pets.

 

Heat Related Health and Safety Tips for Pets:

 In extreme heat, it is important that pets are in an air conditioned environment.

 Never leave pets alone in a vehicle. If you see a pet in an unattended vehicle, call 911.

 Watch for coolant leaking from your vehicle. A pet drinking just a small amount can cause death.

 Do not force your animal to exercise after a meal in hot, humid weather. Limit exercise to the early morning or evening hours.

 Never leave your pet standing on asphalt surfaces, as they can burn their paws.

Cooldown St. Louis is helping area seniors and the disabled with their air-conditioning and utilities; and area low-income households may also apply for utility assistance only, at 314-241-7668, or www.Cooldownstlouis.org.

Immediately report animals in distress to the City of St. Louis Citizens’ Service Bureau by calling 314-622-4800, reporting online at www.stlouis-mo.gov/csb, or by tweeting to @stlcsb. You can also contact Stray Rescue of St. Louis at 314-771-6121 ext 255.