JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – As summer weather arrives, Missourians are reminded to be aware of the dangers posed by extreme heat and humidity and take precautions as they spend more time outdoors.
“Extreme heat and humidity are dangerous seasonal hazards in Missouri that can place a lot of stress on the body, especially for more vulnerable groups like children, the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions,” State Emergency Management Agency Director Jim Remillard said. “It’s important for Missourians to learn about these risks in advance and know how to protect themselves to stay safe and healthy.”
To help Missourians prepare, the state will observe Summer Safety Day on Wednesday, June 12. SEMA and the National Weather Service (NWS) encourage all Missourians to pay attention to local forecasts and plan accordingly when activities are outside. Humidity can amplify the feeling of heat measured by a heat index, so it is especially important to keep a close eye on friends and family and know the signs of heat-related illnesses.
Remember, never leave a child or pet alone in a vehicle. Even on a cooler day, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise by 20 degrees in 10 minutes and pose a real threat to anyone left inside. Stress, distraction and being out of a normal routine can all contribute to forgetting a child in a car seat. Always “look before you lock” and check the back seat each time you exit your vehicle.
Remember these other safety tips to protect yourself and your family during the summer heat:
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