Cool It
Cooling Centers Announced As Extreme Heat Blankets Region; County Encourages Residents To Stay Hydrated And Remain Indoors
In response to the forecasted extreme heat, Prince George’s County has announced the opening of multiple cooling centers throughout the area to provide residents with safe and cool environments. This initiative aims to ensure the health and well-being of all community members, especially those vulnerable to heat-related illness.
County Executive Angela D. Alsobrooks emphasized the importance of these cooling centers, stating, “The safety and well-being of our residents are our top priorities. As temperatures soar, we encourage everyone to take advantage of these cooling centers, stay hydrated, and check on their neighbors, particularly the elderly and those with health conditions.”
A full list of cooling centers is available at https://bit.ly/StayCoolPGC.
High temperatures and humidity are anticipated for the area today, Monday, June 17 through Sunday, June 23. Temperatures are predicted to increase towards the end of the week and into the weekend. The Prince George’s County Office of Homeland Security/Office of Emergency Management reminds residents to take precautions to avoid heat related illnesses.
· Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, even if you do not feel thirsty. A recommended amount of one and a half a quart of fluid will suffice in the avoidance of fluid deficiency. Avoid drinks with alcohol, sugar, and caffeine. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
· Limit outdoor activities during excessive heat. If you must be out during the hottest part of the day, be sure to wear light weight and light-colored clothing and a hat to minimize the potential for heat exhaustion.
· Never leave children, older adults, or pets alone in closed vehicles. Temperatures in parked cars can reach an estimate of 130 degrees within minutes, resulting in brain damage or death.
· Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone. More specifically, older adults, families with young children, people with special needs, or individuals living alone to ensure their safety and hydration.
· Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.
· Register for Alert Prince George’s to receive emergency information, via your mobile or landline phones, including severe weather alerts from the National Weather Service and emergency information from the Prince George’s County Office of Homeland Security/Office of Emergency Management.
· Go to a designated cooling center if your home loses power during periods of extreme heat. Stay on the lowest floor and out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
For additional information, please contact the County’s information hotline at 3-1-1 or visit the Prince George’s County government website at www.princegeorgescountymd.gov. Residents are reminded to utilize 9-1-1 for heat related health emergencies.
