Placer County opens cooling centers as temps soar
Auburn, Calif. – In response to the National Weather Service's excessive heat warning, Placer County libraries are extending their hours at the Auburn, Colfax and Foresthill locations to provide residents with a cool and comfortable space to escape the heat.
"Placer County libraries are committed to serving the community, and during times of extreme heat, we want to ensure residents have a safe and cool place to go," said Placer County Library Division Director Mary George. "We encourage everyone to take advantage of our extended hours and the many resources available at our libraries."
Library Hours
All three libraries will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on July 3, 5 and 6, and on Sunday, July 7, from 2 to 7 p.m.
Library resources available during extended hours include:
- Air-conditioned space
- Access to computers and Wi-Fi
- Books, magazines and other materials
- Public restrooms
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated and take precautions to avoid heat-related illness.
Proactive Measures
- Stay hydrated by regularly drinking water or other nonalcoholic beverages;
- Use home air conditioners or spend time in air-conditioned locations such as malls and libraries;
- Use portable electric fans to exhaust hot air from rooms and draw in cooler air;
- Take cool baths or showers or use cool compresses to prevent overheating;
- Minimize direct exposure to the sun;
- Eat light, cool, easy-to-digest foods such as fruit and salads;
- Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes, as well as wide-brimmed hats to protect the face and neck;
- Wear sunglasses that provide 100 percent UVA and UVB protection;
- Apply sunscreen liberally before going outdoors;
- Check on older, sick or frail people who may need help responding to the heat;
- Know the symptoms of excessive heat exposure. Heat-related illnesses include cramps, exhaustion and heat stroke. Warning signs can include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, headaches, nausea, vomiting, paleness and dizziness;
- Avoid leaving children or pets alone in cars for any amount of time; and
- Do not exercise outdoors during the hottest parts of the day.
You should seek medical attention if you experience rapid, strong pulses; feel delirious, or have a body temperature above 102 degrees.