ST. LOUIS (KTRS) Health officials across the Midwest are cautioning residents to take precautions during the current heat wave as temperatures climb into the 90s and heat indexes top 100. The United Way has opened its network of cooling shelters that offer area residents a place where they can escape the heat during daytime hours. A list of cooling centers can be found here.

St. Louisans are reminded they can stay cool without having to face a costly electric bill.

Ameren Missouri’s program supervisor for energy efficiency, Jeff Berg, says a low-tech way to cut costs in the summer is closing window blinds during the day and changing your air filter. Berg also reminds St. Louisans to check on the elderly and the disabled on very hot days. Some people hesitate turning on their air conditioners in the heat but Berg says it’s more important to stay alive than to try to save a few dollars on their electric bill.