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WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — Public Health Officials have designated all Marathon County Public Library branches as cooling centers this week.
“We ask everyone to take precautions to avoid heat exhaustion, and to check on their family, friends, and neighbors who may be especially vulnerable to extreme heat,” said Laura Scudiere, Marathon County Health Officer. “Infants, young children, older adults, and people with chronic disease have a tougher time regulating their body temperature. Please help them stay cool and hydrated.”
Those who do not have air conditioning are encouraged to visit the library branches to get relief from the heat and monitor their symptoms for any of the following conditions:
- Heat cramps: Including muscular pains and spasms resulting from heavy exertion. These symptoms are often the first signal that the body is suffering from excessive heat.
- Heat exhaustion: Including fainting, rash, fatigue, and nausea. Skin may become clammy and moist.
- Heat/Sun Stroke: Including hot, dry skin, the absence of sweat, nausea, confusion, and unconsciousness. This is a life-threatening condition.
In addition to taking breaks in an air-conditioned building, health officials say you can avoid heat-related illness by limiting your outdoor activity, wearing loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and drinking plenty of water.
For heat-related health information, call the Marathon County Health Department at contact 715-261-1900. For information on Marathon County Public Library cooling centers, call 715-261-7200.
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