Managing Extreme Heat

The national heating trend we’re experiencing was slated for 2053 – but it’s hitting us now with a vengeance leaving us with scorching temperatures well above 100 degrees across the country. Locally we talked with three agencies providing information on how to stay safe in this “Extreme Heat.” Lawanna Gelzer from the Community Equity Project shared an open forum Thursday July 27th 6:30 pm at Callahan Center. They’ll offer information and free heat kits to attendees. Her organization is putting out a call to businesses who can offer space as “cooling stations.” Her organization offers internships and scholarships through www.communityequityproject.org Call 407/953-5599 for more information. Orange County Fire Rescue, Battalion Chief Anthony Phillips shared tips on how to stay cool during this time – from taking cold showers, to putting water bottles and towels on ice to locating cooling stations in your neighborhood. Take breaks if you are working or playing outside regularly. Call them to make safety checks on elderly or if you feel you are in distress. 407/836-9000 www.ocfl.net/ Finally, Martha Are, CEO of the Homeless Services Network (their mission is to ensure the rehabilitation into society and the safety of our homeless population), shared that, that population is at the core of the negative effects of heat stress, heat cramps, dehydration, and heat stroke. Find out how you can help our homeless contact www.communityequityproject.com/ (407) 953-5599