Two boys slide into the splash pad at Southwood Park on Tuesday. There were very few people at the park as temperatures soared into the upper 90s. (Photo by Amber Phipps)

MARIETTA – An extreme heat warning remains in effect for the Mid-Ohio Valley until 10 p.m. Friday, July 3, according to the National Weather Service in Charleston.

The weather service reported “dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 108” and “heat-related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events.”

The temperature is expected around the high 90s at the start of the week and will reach the 100s by Friday.

The National Weather Service advised to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities during the afternoons when temperatures reach the hottest during the day.

Wood County Health Department Public Information Officer Amy Phelps said heat stroke is the most dangerous heat-related illness.

“When you experience heat stroke, your body can no longer control its temperature,” she said. “Sweating fails and your body is unable to cool itself down.”

Phelps said if someone is experiencing a heat stroke, call 911 and move the individual to the shade or indoors.

“It’s caused by prolonged heat exhaustion,” she said. “The first signs are usually confusion and loss of consciousness and sometimes seizures.”

Phelps advised people to drink lots of water and stay hydrated throughout the day. She said to wear loose and light clothing during the hottest part of the day.

“Take breaks if you’re working outside and drink lots of water,” Phelps said. “Get into some air conditioning to keep cool even for a little bit to prevent exhaustion.”

Phelps said it’s also important to be mindful of the sun and to continue wearing sunscreen during the day to prevent sunburns.

A supervisor with the Wood County 911 Center said there were three heat-related medical calls on Tuesday.

There were reportedly no heat-related calls on Monday.

Marietta Memorial Health Systems personnel provided information on how to identify and avoid heat stroke during the summer. The information was published by Marietta Memorial and physician approved.

Warning signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, headaches, nausea and muscle cramping. Heat stroke warning signs include confusion, fainting, lack of sweating, and a body temperature exceeding 103 degrees.

Marietta Memorial defined heat exhaustion as a condition when the body overheats from exposure to high temperatures and humidity. Heat stroke was defined as a condition when the body overheats and reaches high body temperatures that can result in organ damage.

To avoid heat exhaustion or stroke, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Wear light and breathable clothing and take breaks throughout the day for those who work outside.

For those who experience health complications, be cautious when there are heat advisories and avoid heavy activity during the hottest part of the day from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Marietta Memorial advised those experiencing heat exhaustion or stroke to get medical help immediately.

Amber Phipps can be reached at aphipps@newsandsentinel.com