SALT LAKE COUNTY, Utah, July 19, 2020 (Gephardt Daily) — Salt Lake County has extended the dates of two cooling centers for residents and visitors who need a reprieve from the heat, with high temperatures expected in the Valley through the next week.
“Cooling centers are air-conditioned, indoor spaces open to the public; anyone seeking a break from the heat can visit to cool off, hydrate, and stay safe from heat-related illness,” said a news release from Salt Lake County. “The county encourages residents to look out for each other and check on neighbors, particularly those who are older or have chronic conditions, during periods of extreme heat.”
The two cooling centers are at Mountain America Expo Center, 9575 S. State St. in Sandy, and the Salt Palace Convention Center, 100 S. West Temple in Salt Lake City. Parking is free in both places.
The cooling centers are available now until Friday, July 24 from noon to 7 p.m. each day.
Social distancing protocols will be enforced inside the facility, and visitors are required to wear a face covering. People with symptoms of illness should refrain from coming to the facilities, the news release said.
Health officials encourage everyone, especially older adults, to exercise caution in excessive heat by following these tips:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
- Wear appropriate clothing; light colored and lightweight fabrics work best.
- Stay indoors during midday when outside temperatures are hottest, usually between noon and 3 p.m.
- Take it easy, avoiding exercise and strenuous activity when it’s hottest outside.
- Know the warning signs of heat-related illness, which include dizziness, nausea, rapid heart rate, chest pain and difficulty breathing.
- Visit a cooling center if necessary.
In addition to the Cooling Centers, Salt Lake County Aging and Adult Services can provide fans to older adults who need assistance with the summer heat, the news release said. Aging and Adult Services is accepting donations of new, never used, box and oscillating fans from individuals and businesses who wish to help seniors stay cool this summer. Donors may drop off fans at any Salt Lake County senior center between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., or the County Government Center, 2001 S. State St., South Building.
Aging and Adult Services is also offering resources to assist eligible older adults and other individuals who may be at greater risk of COVID-19 with assistance in fixing minor repairs to cooling systems and other individual assistance. Call 835-458-3200 for more info or to request assistance.
