The Columbia/Boone County Health Department is urging residents to be cautious as temperatures and humidity increases during the summer months. The health department setup ways for residents to stay cool.
The health department has cooling centers for those who do not have access to air-conditioning. The following are open to the public during regular business hours at:
-ARC, 1707 West Ash Street
-Armory Sports and Community Center, 701 East Ash Street
-Columbia Public Library, 100 West Broadway
-Health and Human Services Department, 1005 West Worley
-Missouri United Methodist Church, 204 South 9th Street
-Oakland Senior Center, 805 Old Hwy 63 North
-Salvation Army, 1108 West Ash Street
-Salvation Army Harbor House, 602 North Ann
The department also setup two utility assistance programs for qualified Boone County residents. H.E.L.P. (Heat Energy and Light Program) provides one-time emergency assistance to low income families with young children in the home. C.A.S.H. (Citizens Assisting Seniors and Handicapped) also provides emergency assistance to low-income senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
The very young and very old are more susceptible to heat related illness because their bodies are less likely to sweat to cool down.
The health department said that there are things that can be done to prevent heat related illness:
-Dress for the heat (light-colored, light-weight clothes) and use a hat or umbrella to block the sun
-Drink water and avoid alcohol beverages and caffeine
-Eat small meals and eat more often
-Stay indoors with air-conditioning when possible
-Take regular breaks when physically active
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