McGehee School Board to meet
The McGehee School Board will meet at 5 p.m. Monday at the high school library. The agenda includes the financial report, handbook additions/revisions, and the administrator’s reports, according to a news release.
New Community cancels event
New Community Church is canceling the Kingdom Builder’s program that was planned for 6 p.m. Sunday with speaker Sandra Hope. There was a scheduling conflict, according to a spokesman.
Highway panel unveils draft of plan
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The Arkansas State Highway Commission released the Draft Statewide Transportation Improvement Program for federal fiscal years 2025-2028.
The public is invited to review and comment on the contents of the Draft STIP through July 22, according to a news release.
The STIP includes all regionally significant transportation projects to be undertaken in coordination with the Federal Highway Administration or the Federal Transit Administration.
The plan is available at www.ardot.gov/STIP. Copies of the Draft STIP are also available by mail when requested through ARDOT’s Program Management Division at (501) 569-2262.
Submit all comments regarding the STIP via mail to Keli Wylie, P.E., Assistant Chief Engineer – Program Delivery, Arkansas Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 2261, Little Rock, AR 72203, or email to STIP@ardot.gov.
Red Cross offers tips to stay cool
The American Red Cross, serving Greater Arkansas, is asking residents to take three steps to stay safe: slow down, stay hydrated and spend time indoors.
Heat is more than uncomfortable, it can be deadly, especially for older adults, the very young and those with chronic medical conditions. Last year, some 2,300 heat-related deaths occurred, according to a news release.
THREE STEPS TO KEEP COOL
Slow down by postponing or limiting outdoor activities, including strenuous exercise. If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks and avoid the hottest part of the day by scheduling tasks earlier or later. Hot cars can be deadly — never leave children or pets in your vehicle alone.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. Check that animals also have access to plenty of fresh water and shade.
Spend time indoors in an air-conditioned place. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a public library, shopping mall or a public cooling center. Call 211 to find an open location. Check on loved ones and neighbors who may be at risk and do not have air conditioning to make sure they are safe.
HEAT ILLNESSES
Heat cramps — These are early signs of trouble and include heavy sweating with muscle pains or spasms. To help, move the person to a cooler place and encourage them to drink water or a sports drink. Get medical help if symptoms last longer than an hour or if the person has heart problems.
Heat exhaustion –This is a more severe condition signaled by heavy sweating; cool, pale and clammy skin; a fast or weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps; tiredness or weakness; or a headache, dizziness or passing out. To help, move the person to a cooler place, loosen tight clothing, encourage them to sip water slowly. Use wet cloths, misting or fanning to help cool them off. Get medical help right away if symptoms get worse or last longer than an hour, or if they begin vomiting or acting confused.
Heat stroke — This is a deadly condition that requires immediate medical help. Symptoms include a high body temperature; hot, red, dry or damp skin; a fast or strong pulse; a headache or dizziness; or nausea, confusion and passing out. Call 911 right away if you think someone may have heat stroke. After calling 911, move the person to a cool place, and use wet cloths, misting or fanning to help cool them off. Do not give the person anything to drink.
For details, download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for real-time weather alerts and heat safety information. Find both apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.