Orange County announced it will activate cooling centers from July 3-5 as North Carolina braces for extreme heat over the Fourth of July weekend.

“With high temperatures expected throughout the holiday weekend, Orange County urges residents to take steps to prevent heat-related illness,” the county’s release reads.

The two dedicated cooling centers are located at the Orange County Public Library at 137 W. Margaret Lane in Hillsborough and at the Southern Branch Library in the Drake Library Complex at 203 S. Greensboro Street in Carrboro. Both centers will be open from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m.

“Older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers and those without access to air conditioning are at greater risk,” the release continued. “Residents are encouraged to check on family members, neighbors and others who may need assistance staying cool.”

In addition to the two dedicated cooling centers, the county shared a list of locations around the community where people can find cooling, water, bathrooms, phone charging, wi-fi and more. These locations include the Homestead Aquatic Center, Weaver Street Market in Carrboro, Hillsborough and Southern Village, and Umstead Park. The full list of locations and the services available at each can be found below.

The county also provided some advice to those facing hot conditions over the weekend. It recommends limiting outdoor time during hours of peak heat between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., drinking water and electrolyte-rich beverages, wearing light clothing and avoiding leaving people or pets in hot cars.

Finally, the county encouraged residents to stay aware of the symptoms of heat-related illnesses. These include mild symptoms like headaches, sweating and muscle cramps, as well as severe symptoms such as confusion, dizziness and fainting. It encouraged those experiencing these symptoms to seek medical attention immediately.

Those without shelter and who are in need of help should contact Orange County’s Street Outreach, Harm Reduction and Deflection (SOHRAD) program at 919-886-3351, and those seeking general information can call 919-245-2302.

For even more advice on beating the heat and staying safe, check out this article compiling hot weather advice from local officials.

 

Featured images via Brighton McConnell and Henry Taylor/Chapel Hill Media Group

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