Cooling Centers Available Across Howard County During Heat Wave

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Meteorologists expect highs of 90 degrees and up for at least the next seven days in Maryland. Howard County residents in need of a cooler environment can visit one of Howard County’s Community Centers, 50+ Centers or library branches during normal hours.

Residents also are reminded to follow several safety tips:

• 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.

Related:

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