The Lead Off The American Red Cross is warning of dangerously high temperatures expected across Indiana beginning this weekend Officials are urging residents to stay hydrated, stay cool, and stay connected to prevent heat-related illness Health experts say extreme heat can quickly become life-t hreatening without proper precautions FORT WAYNE, IND. (WOWO) The Indiana Region of the American Red Cross is urging residents to take safety precautions as dangerously high temperatures are expected to impact the state beginning this weekend and continuing into next week. Officials say extreme heat can pose serious health risks and are emphasizing three key steps: stay hydrated, stay cool, and stay connected. Key safety guidance during extreme heat The Red Cross is encouraging residents to drink water frequently, even if they do not feel thirsty, and to avoid sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic beverages. They recommend: Drinking a cup of water about every 20 minutes Seeking air-conditioned spaces such as libraries, malls, or cooling centers Checking on family, friends, neighbors, and vulnerable individuals Officials also remind residents to ensure pets have access to shade and fresh water. Outdoor workers and athletes are advised to take frequent breaks and stay hydrated with water or sports drinks. Recognizing heat-related illness The Red Cross outlined symptoms and response steps for common heat-related conditions. Heat cramps Heavy sweating and muscle pain Stop activity, rest in a cool place, and drink fluids Seek medical help if cramps last more than two hours Heat exhaustion Symptoms include weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and heavy sweating Move to a cool area, loosen clothing, and hydrate Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve within an hour Heat stroke (medical emergency) Symptoms include confusion, rapid heartbeat, high body temperature, and fainting Call 911 immediately Move the person to a cooler area and use cooling methods while waiting for help Additional precautions during outages Officials warn that power outages during heat waves can significantly increase danger. Residents are encouraged to: Stay in air-conditioned locations whenever possible Use cooling centers if home cooling is unavailable Keep emergency supplies, including water, food, and medications stored safely in a cooler if needed Safety tools and resources The Red Cross is also encouraging residents to download its First Aid and Emergency apps, which provide real-time weather alerts, safety information, and first aid guidance in both English and Spanish. Next steps Officials say residents should monitor local forecasts closely as the heat wave develops and continue following safety guidance throughout the duration of extreme temperatures expected across the region. The Takeaway Dangerous heat expected statewide The American Red Cross is warning Indiana residents about an incoming period of extreme heat beginning this weekend. Prevention focuses on hydration and cooling Officials say drinking water regularly, staying in air-conditioned spaces, and checking on vulnerable individuals are key to preventing heat illness. Heat illness can escalate quickly Experts stress that heat stroke is a medical emergency and urge residents to recognize early warning signs and seek immediate help when needed. The post Tri-State residents urged to prepare for dangerous heat wave, Red Cross says appeared first on WOWO News/Talk 92.3 FM and 1190 AM. ...read more read less