City activates Emergency Operations Center, offers safety tips in response to Excessive Heat Warning
INDIANAPOLIS – The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning that will be in effect from 2 pm today through 8 pm Sunday. Heat index values are expected to rise above 100 degrees during this time. These conditions can increase the risk of heat illness for anyone, but especially for individuals who are very young, the elderly, and those who spend prolonged periods of time outdoors.
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Homeland Security Bureau has activated the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to Level 4, and will continue to monitor conditions through the weekend. The EOC convenes public health, safety, and service agencies to provide a coordinated response to extreme weather and emergency incidents.
The IMPD Homeless Unit continues to engage with residents experiencing homelessness. During periods of extreme heat, the unit works to educate neighbors on the expected conditions and ways to stay safe, connect them with emergency shelter options and resources, and check for signs of dehydration and heat stroke. IMPD beat officers patrolling Indianapolis neighborhoods this weekend will be watching for signs that individuals may be experiencing heat-related illnesses.
With the Indiana Black Expo and many events taking place in Indianapolis during this period of extreme heat, the City encourages residents and visitors to take extra precautions to keep themselves and their families safe. The following safety tips are important to keep in mind:
- Stay hydrated. Keep in mind that drinking alcohol and caffeine can lead to dehydration.
- Check on relatives and neighbors, especially the elderly and those without access to air conditioning.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
- When outside, wear light, loose-fitting clothing and take frequent breaks in the shade or an air-conditioned room.
- Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
- Look before you lock! Pay special attention when locking up vehicles to ensure no children or pets are left inside. Temperatures inside a car can become lethal in a matter of minutes.
- Bring pets indoors and ensure they have plenty of water to drink. Report dogs left outside for extended periods to RequestIndy, the Mayor’s Action Center 317-327-4622, or police non-emergency 317-327-3811.
- Those in need of non-emergency resources or shelter can call Connect2Help by dialing 2-1-1.
- Carry an umbrella for immediate shade while out enjoying festivities.
For resources to help residents stay cool, click here.
Aliya Wishner
Chief Communications Officer
IMPD and OPHS – City of Indianapolis
aliya.wishner@indy.gov | C: (317) 995-7645
