With a record-breaking heatwave in effect and heat index values reaching triple digits, many vulnerable residents are now at risk for heat-related illnesses. To help, Wake County will open a temporary cooling station tomorrow for those who don’t have a place to seek relief from the high temperatures.
Starting at 10 a.m., residents can cool off on the first floor of Wake County’s Swinburne building, located at 220 Swinburne St., Raleigh. The facility operates from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and during that timeframe, residents can enter to take a break from the sweltering summertime temperatures.
“Even during this pandemic, it’s still important to provide relief for residents who are exposed to extreme heat,” said Wake County Manager David Ellis. “That’s why we’re opening the cooling center with safety protocols in place to protect visitors from the virus, as well as heat-related illness.”
The cooling center will observe strict COVID-19 precautions, including requiring visitors to wear face coverings, participate in temperature screenings and abide by social distancing guidelines. Anyone who refuses to follow these rules will not be allowed to enter. Areas will be sanitized and wiped down frequently to ensure cleanliness.
Adults over 65, children under four, people with existing medical conditions and those without access to air conditioning are at the greatest risk on days with high temperatures. Drinking plenty of water and staying out of the sun are critical precautions. People should also check on their neighbors who may be at high risk and ensure they have access to heat relief and hydration.
To stay safe and cool during extreme heat, residents are encouraged to:
- Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun;
- Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible;
- Familiarize themselves with the medical conditions that can result from over-exposure to heat, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke;
- Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks; and
- Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
