More than 70 cool centers available for residents to escape during heat advisory

Health officials are urging residents to take precautions to protect themselves from triple-digit temperatures that are expected to hit the region this week. Temperatures are expected to top 100 degrees through the week and into the weekend, according to the heat advisory.

“Take this heat seriously, even if you’re healthy, because the predicted temperatures are nothing to take lightly” said Public Health Officer Dr. Geoffrey Leung. “Just a few precautions can help you stay safe. Even remaining outdoors for short periods of time can impact your health.”

Leung advises limiting outdoor activity, remaining indoors in air-conditioned buildings, wearing loose and light-colored clothing, taking cool showers or baths and drinking lots of water. Avoid drinking alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar. Working outdoors during peak periods can be hazardous even for those who feel they are acclimated to the heat, Leung said.

High temperatures can be hazardous for many people, especially for the elderly and those with medical conditions. Heat-related injuries such as heatstroke, an illness that occurs when the body can no longer regulate its temperature, can strike fast and pose life-threatening consequences.

Riverside County residents without access to air-conditioning are urged to visit a local cool center. Coordinated by the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County, more than 70 cool centers are located in local libraries, as well as senior and community centers. Light refreshments and water will be available at some locations.

For a list of cool center locations, click here.

 

Image Sources

  • heatwave: Shutterstock