Hot Weather Alert -- Cooling Centers Opened

For Immediate Release: Monday, July 27, 2009

Hot weather, with temperatures in the 90s and 100s, are forecast for upcoming days and have prompted local health officials to urge residents to stay cool and safe while they enjoy summertime activities. Heat can lead to serious medical problems, particularly for older adults, young children, people with chronic illness, and people with weight or alcohol problems.

"The danger for heat–related illnesses rises when outside temperatures are very high," said Dr. Gary Oxman, Tri-County Health Officer for Washington, Multnomah and Clackamas Counties. "Fortunately, all of us can prevent heat exhaustion or heat stroke with some simple steps."

Protect yourself and your loved ones from heat exhaustion and heat stroke by following these recommendations:

Stay cool

• Spend more time in air conditioned places. If you don't have air conditioning, consider visiting a mall, movie theater, library, community center or other cool public places.
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun.
• Dress in lightweight clothing.
• Check up regularly on your elderly neighbors and relatives.

Drink liquids

• Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic beverages.
• Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink.
• Avoid alcohol.

If you go outside

• Limit your direct exposure to the sun.
• Do not leave infants, children, people who can't get out of a car unassisted and pets in a parked car, even with the window rolled down.
• Avoid or reduce strenuous activity.
• Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
• Avoid sunburn. Use a sunscreen lotion with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating.

Check with your physician if you are concerned about heat and the specific medications you are taking. Certain medications may increase sensitivity to the heat. Do not take salt tablets unless directed to by a physician.

If you experience heat-related symptoms or if those symptoms significantly affect your ability to care for yourself, get help right away.

Cooling Centers

In Hillsboro, the following centers will be open to help people cool off. Even an hour or two of cooling can help keep you from heat related sickness:

Tyson Recreation Center
1880 NE Griffin Oaks St Hillsboro, OR
5 pm – 9 pm (extended hours, Mon. – Fri.)

Hillsboro Senior Community Center
750 SE 8th Avenue Hillsboro, OR
9 am – 9 pm (extended hours, Mon. – Fri.)

Main Library
2850 Brookwood Parkway Hillsboro, OR
10 am – 8 pm (Mon. – Fri.)

Shute Park Branch Library
775 SE 10th Avenue Hillsboro, OR
10 am – 8 pm (Mon. – Wed.)
10 am – 6 pm (Thurs., Fri.)

West Police Precinct
250 SE 10th Avenue Hillsboro, OR
3 pm – 9 pm (Mon. – Fri.)

The following Hillsboro churches will also be open this week for those needing a respite from the heat:

Sonrise Church
6701 NE Campus Dr, Hillsboro, OR
12 pm – 5 pm (Tues. – Fri.)
Tri-Met # 47, # 48 and "Orenco Station" MAX

Westport Church
20085 NW Tanasbourne Drive, Hillsboro, OR
10 am – 4 pm (Tues., Thurs. & Fri.)

Everyone is welcome at any of these cooling stations but children should be accompanied by an adult. For a recorded message regarding the location and hours of available cooling stations, please call 503-681-5295.

Homeless youth (ages 14 –19) are welcome at Safe Place Youth Shelter, 454 SE Washington Street, Hillsboro, Open 24 hours Tuesday through Friday. TriMet #57 and Max Hillsboro Central/3rd Avenue.

Media Contact:

Kent Burtner, Communications Officer, Health and Human Services
503-846-3634
[email protected]