Keep cool this summer at drop-in Cool Centers

When sweltering heat waves hit, stay cool at local drop-in Cool Centers. File Photo

With sweltering heat waves hitting Southern California this summer, County of Riverside Community Action Partnership has coordinated Cool Centers to serve as drop-in sites for vulnerable individuals, seniors, the disabled and others in need of temporary relief from the heat. For a list of Cooling Centers, visit capriverside.org and click on the Cooling Centers tab.

Hot Weather Tips:

• Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat, or use an umbrella for shade.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose clothing.
• Slow down, rest in the shade or a cool place when possible.
• Never leave a child, elderly, disabled person, or animal alone in a vehicle.
• Keep shaded areas with fresh water for outdoor animals.
• Turn on your air conditioner.
• Check on friends and neighbors who are elderly, have medical conditions, or are at higher risk for problems when it is very hot.
• If you do not have an air conditioner, use a fan, make sure your windows are open, and visit a cool center.
• Take a cool shower or bath.
• When it is hotter than 90˚, visit a friend that has air conditioning in their home or a cool place like a mall, a library or a senior center.

For Cool Center locations, hours and tips on how to protect yourself from heat-related illnesses, call the County of Riverside Community Action Partnership at 951-955-4900 or visit capriverside.org.

The County of Riverside Community Action is a member of a national network of over 1,100 Community Action Agencies across the United States. Community Action was established under the presidency of Lyndon Johnson in 1964 as a part of the “War on Poverty.” Community Action relies on partners, volunteers and in-kind services to leverage the federal funding. The staff and volunteers serve the vast county, which runs 250 miles from Orange County to the Arizona border.