As heat and humidity continues, officials urge caution

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- A Heat Advisory is in effect for all of southeastern Wisconsin through Friday, July 19th at 7:00 p.m., and the city of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County have gone on the offensive, making plans to keep people safe as the heat and humidity brought on by a high dewpoint continues.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett and Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele on Wednesday afternoon, held a joint news conference, where they told residents to stay cool, stay hydrated and stay informed.

"The most important thing, if you remember nothing else, is pay attention and take care of each other. Watch out for each other. When people seem like they`re tired with the slowing down, don`t wait for them to say something about it. Say something to them about it," Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele said.

Symptoms of heat-related illness include: dizziness, muscle cramps, headaches, nausea, confusion and fainting.

Officials say when the heat and humidity is dangerous, it is important to limit outdoor activity, wear light clothing, take cool baths and take advantage of air conditioned spaces.

"Remember that those individuals at highest risk are the elderly, the very young, those with underlying health conditions and those on certain medications especially or those with mental health issues," Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett said.

The city has designated several areas as cool spaces -- including libraries. Yvette Truth and her children took advantage of the books and the cool air in the library.

"I didn`t want to have my electricity turned up, you know. We had to come here and stay cool and we went outside. When I let them outside and play, they stay for a few minutes and it`s too hot and they want to come back in," Truth said.

On Thursday, all branches of the Milwaukee Public Library will open at 10:00 a.m. and close at 8:00 p.m.

The Central Library will open at 9:00 a.m.

If the heat persists, the extended hours will continue.

Milwaukee Public Schools and Milwaukee Recreation are opening cool spots in playgrounds from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

CLICK HERE for additional information on MPS cool spots.

For a detailed list of all aquatic facility locations and hours please visit countyparks.com.

CLICK HERE for additional information on staying safe in the heat.