Heat, humidity can be dangerous for elderly, vulnerable

MILWAUKEE -- We've seen temperatures in the 90s with high humidity this week, although technically, the City of Milwaukee was not under a "heat emergency." However, city officials warn the heat can be dangerous!

The City of Milwaukee's Health Department has a plan when it comes to dealing with summer's heat, but for the Health Department, the plan requires a "heat advisory."

Despite the high temperatures and humidity, a "heat emergency" was not declared for Milwaukee.

"A Heat Advisory is called when it approaches 100 for four days or more, and so unfortunately, seeing indices in the mid-to-upper 90s, we only see it last for a few days," Paul Biedrzycki with the Milwaukee Health Department said.

Though there was not a technical "heat emergency" declared, officials warn heat and humidity can still be dangerous, especially for the elderly, and those who are socially isolated or on medications that inhibit their bodies from cooling down.

Renee Jaeger with the Interfaith Older Adults Program was busy checking on vulnerable individuals on Tuesday, June 19th.

"The situation can get very dangerous, too quick, especially during heat waves. That daily telephone reassurance call is a daily check to make sure everything is okay," Jaeger said.

Interfaith officials encourage residents to check on their neighbors and be sure they have air conditioning or fans available because sometimes, when individuals begin feeling the effects of the heat, it can be too late.

Officials encourage people to seek out an escape from the heat -- like the Wilson Park Senior Center. The Wilson Park Senior Center has volunteers and professionals that teach over 52 programs for seniors, for free.

Additionally, Milwaukee Public Schools and the Milwaukee Recreation Department have turned on "cool spot" locations throughout the city, where residents can cool off safely when temperatures get above 85 degrees.

Monitor the weather and hot temperatures by checking the weather section on FOX6Now.com.

CLICK HERE for more information on the Wilson Park Senior Center.

CLICK HERE for tips from the City of Milwaukee Health Department on staying cool when it gets hot.

CLICK HERE for a list of Milwaukee County Pools.

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