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NEWS RELEASE

JEFFERSON PARISH, LOUISIANA

June 19, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HEAT THREATS EXPECTED FOR THE NEXT THREE DAYS ACROSS THE AREA

JEFFERSON, LA – Over the next three days, high temperatures and heat index values are forecasted to be in the upper 80’s to the low 90’s. Citizens should take precautionary measures to avoid becoming a victim of heat exhaustion related illnesses.

Heat related illnesses, like heat exhaustion or heat stroke, happen when the body is not able to properly cool itself. While the body normally cools itself by sweating, during extreme heat, this might not be enough. In these cases, a person’s body temperature rises faster than it can cool itself down. This can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs. Some factors that might increase your risk of developing a heat-related illness include: high levels of humidity, obesity, fever, dehydration, prescription drug use, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn and alcohol use.

Heat-related illnesses are preventable. Tips for preventing heat related illnesses include:

  • Wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
  • Stay cool indoors and schedule outdoor activities carefully
  • Wear sunscreen
  • Stay hydrated
  • Avoid hot and heavy meals
  • Do not leave children or pets in cars (note: cars can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures, even with a window-cracked open)

During high temperatures, it is important to monitor those at high risk, including infants and young children, people 65 years of age or older, people who are overweight, people who overexert during work or exercise and people who are physically ill (especially with heart disease or high blood pressure), or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia or poor circulation.

For more information about Jefferson Parish, visit www.JeffParish.net. Residents can also receive regular updates by following the Parish on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@JeffParishGov). Citizens can text JPALERT to 888-777 for regular updates in English or JPNOTICIAS for regular updates in spanish.

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Jefferson Parish Public Information Office

1221 Elmwood Park Boulevard, Suite 1002

Jefferson, LA 70123

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Gretchen Hirt Gendron, PIO

Office: 504-736-6410