Libraries Open As Cooling Centers In Prince William During Heatwave

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, VA — The heat index value is expected to reach or exceed 110 degrees in Prince William County on Monday. To beat the heat, the county's public libraries and community centers will also serve as cooling centers.

Each of the county's 12 library branches are equipped with air conditioning. The locations will be open until 5 p.m.

Here are a list of the county's library and cooling center locations:

• Bull Run Library
  • 8051 Ashton Avenue, Manassas
• Central Library
  • 8601 Mathis Avenue, Manassas
• Chinn Park Library
  • 13065 Chinn Park Drive, Woodbridge
• Dale City Library
  • 4249 Dale Boulevard, Woodbridge
• Dumfries Library
  • 18115 Triangle Shopping Plaza, Dumfries
• Haymarket Gainesville Library
  • 14870 Lightner Road, Haymarket
• Independent Hill Library
  • 14418 Bristow Road, Manassas
• Lake Ridge Library
  • 2239 Old Bridge Road, Woodbridge
• Manassas City Library
  • 10104 Dumfries Road, Manassas
• Montclair Library
  • 5049 Waterway Drive, Dumfries
• Nokesville Library
  • 12993 Fitzwater Drive, Nokesville
• Potomac Library
  • 2201 Opitz Boulevard, Woodbridge

The Prince William County Office of Emergency Management offers several resources on its website to help residents stay safe during warm weather.

"These conditions can be dangerous and even life-threatening without proper precautions," the office says on its website.

Experts say residents should have an emergency kit, ensure their home's cooling system is working properly, and check on their neighbors. Residents should also learn the signs of heat related illnesses like heat cramps, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion.

In warm weather, residents should drink plenty of fluids and stay indoors whenever possible, county officials said. You should also dress in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and avoid strenuous work.

More resources are available online.