With dangerously hot weather predicted for the next several days Nebraskans are urged to be prepared. The Nebraska State Patrol is urging motorists to plan ahead for their trip by packing a travel survival kit.
“When it gets this hot, it doesn’t take long for the heat to affect people,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “We want people to remember that if they become stranded on the road, they can call the NSP Highway Helpline to reach NSP dispatchers and request help from a trooper.”
The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for a large part of central and eastern Nebraska and Heat Advisories for additional counties throughout the state. Heat Index readings are expected to be to reach as high as 113 degrees in each of the next three days.
The patrol recommends motorists keep a travel survival kit in their vehicle that can help in the event they become stranded. These items could include:
·Water – one gallon plus one bottle per person
·High-energy or dehydrated foods
·Phone chargers
·Sunscreen and protective clothing
·Tool kit
·Flashlight with extra batteries
·Tow rope
·First Aid kit
Any motorist in need of assistance can reach the NSP Highway Helpline by dialing *55 from a cell phone or 1-800-525-5555 from any phone.
The Douglas County Health Department also has some advice to help avoid heat-related problems:
· NEVER leave a person or an animal in a closed, parked vehicle.
· Drink plenty of fluids before you get thirsty and avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine.
· Water is the best drink.
· Take advantage of air conditioning as much as you can.
· Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
· Outdoor activities should be limited to the cooler morning and evening hours.
· Athletes participating in outdoor activities need special attention and lots of fluids.
· People 65 years of age or older are more at risk as are children. Please check on them.
· A sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher should be used when outside.