Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. when possible. Reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
To reduce risk during outdoor work, schedule frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency; call 9-1-1.
*Excessive Heat Warning is issued for same time period for Missouri counties of Bourbon, Crawford, Cherokee, Benton, Morgan, Miller, Vernon, St. Clair, Hickory, Camden, Barton, Cedar, Jasper, Dade, Newton and McDonald.
COOLING CENTERS
If you need a place to stay cool in Springfield, The Salvation Army's headquarters on the northwest corner of Kansas Expressway at Chestnut Expressway is open. The church also has a daily senior citizen program for people age 50 and older. It's also accepting fan donations for senior citizens and low-income residents. For information about the cooling center, the senior program or donating fans, call The Salvation Army at (417) 862-5509.
Branson will open a cooling center at the community center on Compton Drive if the heat index reaches 105 degrees for three straight days.
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Edited news release from The Salvation Army in Springfield:
Residents in need of relief from the heat are always welcome to stop by The Salvation Army’s main lobby at 1707 W. Chestnut Expressway for a safe place to cool off and get a cool drink of water.
"As part of our mission & dedication to the local community, The Salvation Army will always open its doors to those who are most in need,” said Major Norman Grainger, Ozark Area coordinator. “Especially those who are in need of relief from the weather or exposure from the elements.”
Residents who are 50 years old or older are also welcome to participate in The Salvation Army’s senior citizen program, which operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. A nutritious meal is served every day from noon until 1 p.m.; $1donation is requested, but not required.
“We come here for the fellowship and the friendship,” Andy Griffin, a 67-year-old Springfield resident said. “But right now this gives us a chance to get out of the house, and still have protection from the heat.”
The Salvation Army is also accepting donations of fans at its main location to hand out to the community’s elderly and low-income residents. Fans can be donated at anytime.
The Salvation Army activates its Emergency Cooling Center when the National Weather Service issues a Heat Advisory, Excessive Heat Warning or when the need throughout the community appears to be significant.
For more information about The Salvation Army, the Emergency Cooling Center or donating fans to those in need please call (417) 862-5509.
