With heat index values expected to reach triple digits this week, Wake County is opening temporary cooling stations for those who don’t have a place to seek relief from soaring temperatures. The cooling stations will open today and offer residents a safe reprieve through Friday evening when the heat wave is predicted to subside.
“Last summer, hospitals saw more than 3,200 heat-related emergency department visits across our state,” said Wake County Fire Services and Emergency Management Deputy Director Josh Creighton. “Keeping residents safe and healthy is one of our top priorities, and we encourage anyone who needs relief from the heat to take advantage of these opportunities throughout the county.”
Starting at 10 a.m. each day, residents can cool off at the following Wake County locations:
- Wake County Human Services, 220 Swinburne St., Raleigh
- Eastern Regional Center, 1002 Dogwood Drive, Zebulon
- Northern Regional Center, 350 E. Holding Ave., Wake Forest
- Southern Regional Center, 130 N Judd Pkwy NE, Fuquay-Varina
Residents may also stop by one of our Wake County Public Libraries locations for relief from high temperatures. Closing times for libraries vary, so visitors should check online or call their local library for site-specific information.
Sites that are not normally open to the public, such as EMS stations, fire stations and county fleet maintenance buildings, will not be available as cooling stations.
Staying Safe in Extreme Heat
Adults older than 65, children younger than 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.
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