This Independence Day week is bringing some of the hottest weather of the summer so far and local officials are providing several tips to stay safe and healthy around the holiday.
Temperatures will be in the 90’s each afternoon this week and the National Weather Service in Paducah says the humidity will make the heat index peak in the upper 90’s to near 100.
Amanda Bassingthwaite says it’s important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated when spending time outdoors in the summer heat. Find a shady area or an air conditioned place to cool off if you feel yourself beginning to get overheated.
Vehicles become dangerously hot very quickly and Bassingthwaite says look in your back seat when you arrive at your destination to be sure you aren’t leaving a child behind.
If you’re spending time outdoors at a 4th of July cookout this week, be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen to prevent skin damage.
State health officials are reminding residents to be safe when serving food outdoors.
They say remember to pack and transport food safely and to keep cold food cold. Place cold food in a cooler with ice or frozen gel packs. Cold food should be stored at 40 degrees or below to prevent bacterial growth.
Meat, poultry, and seafood may be packed while still frozen so that they stay colder longer. Organize cooler contents and consider packing beverages in one cooler and perishable foods in another. That way, as picnickers open and reopen the beverage cooler to replenish their drinks, the perishable foods will not be exposed to warm outdoor air temperatures.
It’s also important to use a meat thermometer to be sure all meat is cooked thoroughly before consumption.