Community Corner
Local Cooling Centers Offer Relief from the Heat
Authorities urge locals to take advantage of them and protect themselves from heat-related injuries.
by Karen Jordan
This week's heat wave is expected to last through this weekend, and local authorities are warning everyone to stay cool.
If you don't have air conditioning, don't worry. There are a host of cooling centers in Los Angeles County set up to help locals beat the heat.
To find cooling centers in nearby areas, call the 2-1-1 information line, or visit the county's Emergency Survival Program online.
Los Angeles County officials are also suggesting ways to avoid heat-related injuries including:
- Drink plenty of fluids even if you're not thirsty.
- Reduce physical activity.
- Avoid exposure to the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sun's rays are strongest.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes.
- Set your air conditioning thermostat between 75 and 80 degrees.
- Use a sun screen with a sun protection factor, or SPF, of at least 15.
- Avoid hot, heavy meals.
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