A heat advisory is in effect for the area through Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.

Temperatures are forecast to reach the mid to upper 90s with heat indexes as high as 107.

Angie Springs is the Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Northwest Missouri. 

Springs said the Red Cross wants to ensure that everyone takes the proper precautions to be safe during the next couple days.

“According to the CDC, more than 600 people in the U.S. are killed by extreme heat every year and we just want to ensure that everyone takes precautions so this does not happen here,” Springs said.

Springs said with the forecast over the next couple days, the Red Cross has some reminders for how to prepare for the heat.

“Avoid being outside during the midsection of the day when it’s the hottest,” Springs said. “If you have to be outside, wear lightweight clothing, make sure that you stay hydrated.. That means drinking plenty of water. Avoid caffeinated beverages and alcoholic beverages as they do not hydrate you.”

Springs said to also be sure and check on the most vulnerable in your community including the elderly, young or anyone who may be sick, making sure they are staying hydrated and cool. Also, if you don’t have air conditioning, Springs suggests heading to someplace cool, such as the mall or the library during the hottest parts of the day. Springs said they also want to remind people to never leave children or pets alone in vehicles.

Springs said heat exhaustion symptoms can include moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, a headache, nausea or dizziness.

“If you recognize that you have those symptoms or someone around you does, you need to go someplace that is cooler, remove or loosen any tight clothing and apply a cool, wet cloth to the skin,” Spring said. “Drink small amounts of cool water so you can cool down slowly.”

Springs said if anyone is experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke, they should seek medical attention. For more information, go to redcross.org.