Cooling Centers Open To Help Prince Georgians Beat The Heat

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — Meteorologists expect highs of 90 degrees and up for at least the next seven days in Maryland. Prince George's County will be opening multiple cooling centers across the area to help residents beat the heat.

“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," Prince George's County Executive Angela D. Alsobrooks said.

A full list of cooling centers can be seen at https://bit.ly/StayCoolPGC.

The Prince George’s County Office of Homeland Security/Office
of Emergency Management reminds residents to take the following 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.

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