STORY FROM KCCI.COM
Polk County Emergency Management is asking residents to take extra precautions to stay safe during Monday’s heat advisory, which is in effect for much of Iowa.
Daytime cooling centers will be available for people who do not have a place to stay cool. These include public libraries and shopping malls and the Polk County Health Department.
A full list of daytime cooling centers and aquatic centers can be found on the Polk County website.
DART is also providing free rides to cooling centers in Polk County from Saturday, June 11 through Wednesday, June 15.
DART asks people to take the following precautions during extreme heat:
- Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Drink plenty of water. DO NOT wait until you are thirsty to drink. Avoid drinking alcoholic and caffeinated beverages as they dehydrate you.
- Take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors. Spend at least two hours in air conditioning each day.
- Try to avoid being outdoors in the hottest portion of the day: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
