A heat alert issued by Three Rivers District Health Department is extended through Thursday for Owen, Carroll, Gallatin and Pendleton counties. The alert was set to expire Monday, but with a heat wave sweeping the nation, high temperatures and humidity are expected to push the heat indices into the 100-104 degree range.
Children, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses are most at risk during heat alerts. Heat exhaustion, cramps, or, in extreme cases, heat stroke can result from prolonged exposure to heat.
Three Rivers recommends people drink plenty of liquids, even if not thirsty, and avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages. Showering often, wearing light-weight clothing, eating lightly and taking advantage of air-conditioned public areas are other tips to help keep the heat off.
A limited number of air conditioners are available for loan through the county. Three units have already been handed out, but the county is in the process of buying four more, Judge- Executive Billy O’Banion said.
If multiple requests are received, O’Banion said units are handed out based on the severity of need, age and health issues.
“We would gladly take donations, for fans or air-conditioner units,” O’Banion said. Most portable air conditioners run close to $100, and fans start out around $10. Contact the judge-executive’s office at 484-3405 to request or donate an air-conditioning unit.
Friends, relatives or neighbors are encouraged to check on those who may be at risk during the heat alert and invite them to a cool area.
“For the most part, people are using common sense, staying indoors,” O’Banion said.
The Owen County Senior Center will serve as a “cool center” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the heat alert, though O’Banion said hours can be extended if needed.
For transportation, call (502) 750-0848.
Cooling centers are also provided by most local churches and by the Community Action Center on South Madison from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 484-2116 for more information.
Temperatures are expected to decrease over the weekend, lowering to the mid-80s range by next week.

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