June 6, 2008

News Highlights

• Due to ongoing power outages, two cooling centers will be opened on Saturday and Sunday, June 7-8, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m
• The cooling centers will be located at Cub Run and Providence RECenters.
• Those who need transportation should call these centers directly.

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More Information  Heat Safety Tips  RECenters  Library Branches

Due to ongoing power outages as a result of this week’s storms, Fairfax County is opening two cooling centers this weekend. The centers will be located at Cub Run RECenter, 4630 Stonecroft Boulevard, Chantilly, and Providence RECenter, 7525 Marc Drive, Falls Church.

Both cooling centers will be open to the public on Saturday and Sunday, June 7-8, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Transportation will be provided for those who need it. For transportation assistance or more information, call the Cub Run RECenter at 703-817-9407, TTY 711, or the Providence RECenter at 703-698-1351, TTY 711.

Residents can lie down, cool down and get cold water at both these centers. However, people visiting the cooling centers will not be able to use the fitness facilities or pools for free.

This weekend residents also can get a temporary respite from the heat at one of the county’s library branches, other RECenters and pools, or private facilities, such as a mall. However, residents should call the facility first to verify hours of operation.

Resting for just two hours in air conditioning and drinking water can significantly reduce heat-related illnesses.

Residents who need immediate, life-saving help should call 9-1-1. For other safety help, call the public safety non-emergency phone number at 703-691-2131, TTY 711.

To keep cool, follow this general advice:

• Drink plenty of water; avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages because they dehydrate the body.
• Stay indoors as much as possible. Spend time in an air-conditioned place if possible; resting for just two hours in air conditioning can significantly reduce heat-related illnesses.
• Slow down. Avoid strenuous physical activities or reschedule them for the coolest part of the day, usually the early morning.
• Eat light meals.
• Don’t take salt tablets unless directed by a doctor.
• Wear light-colored clothing, which helps reflect sunlight.
• Wear sunscreen to prevent sunburn. Sunburn makes it more difficult for the body to cool off.
• Never leave children or pets unattended in a car — not even for a few minutes. Even with the windows slightly open, the temperature in a car on a 93-degree day can soar to 125 degrees in just 20 minutes and approximately 140 degrees in 40 minutes.

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