This weeks forecast calls for temperatures to hover around the mid to low 90’s and there are tips to stay safe.

Pat Hunter, Director of the Geary County Health Department explained that heat related illnesses are preventable if you take the right steps.

“First and foremost is to drink more fluids,” says Hunter. “Make sure it’s not alcoholic, don’t wait until they’re thirsty. If the temperature is going to be 90 and above just keep taking sips of liquids throughout the day.”

Hunter recommends for those working outside for long periods of time to drink between 16-32 oz. per hour. She also is warning people about drinking extremely cold fluids.

“Make sure it’s not too cold because then it tends to cramp the stomach. That is one of the complaints that you get, ‘Oh I drank the fluids but it just cramps my stomach,’ that’s because it’s too cold.”

If you do not have access to a place with air conditioning and are needing to escape the heat the Health Department has set up heat centers around Junction City. Those locations include the conference room at the Health Department, the Municipal Building, the 12th Street Center, and the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library.

Hunter is also encouraging those who know of people living alone, such as the elderly, or people with children, to check up on the more frequently than before during these periods of extreme heat.

“Because they may not want to leave their home, and by checking on them we may see that they are having some conditions that tell us that they are real stressed, they are overheated.”

If you do start feeling symptoms of heat related stress, move out of the heat and continue drinking plenty of fluids.