City of Seattle offers services during heat wave

Mon, 07/01/2013

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for Seattle and surrounding communities until 11 p.m. Monday evening. In response, the City of Seattle is offering services and information to help members of the public deal with the heat wave.

"Hot weather isn't frequent in Seattle, so it's important that we make sure we're enjoying it safely," said Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn. "Please take a moment to check on your elderly neighbors and relatives to make sure they are staying cool."

Many homes in Seattle are not equipped with air conditioning and may get very hot during the day. The City offers many locations for you to cool down when the temperatures start to rise. Visit 18 of the City's libraries, senior centers or Seattle Center facilities for some relief to today's record-breaking heat. See the lists below.

When you're outside, limit the time you're in direct sunlight and avoid or reduce activities that are tiring or take a lot of energy. Take extra precaution if you work outside and know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Do not leave infants, children, people with mobility challenges and pets in a parked car, even with the window rolled down. Check in with your elderly neighbors and relatives to make sure they are staying cool too.

Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water. Have a beverage with you at all times, and sip or drink frequently. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink.
Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol and large amounts of sugar because they can actually de-hydrate your body.

Protect your pets

Pets are especially vulnerable in high heat and the Seattle Animal Shelter recommends the following:

Never leave your animal chained or penned up directly in sunlight. Provide a shady area for retreat, such as a dog house, porch or shady tree, and always provide cool water.
If you leave animals indoors, open the windows, keep a fan running, provide plenty of water, and if possible, leave them in a cool location.
Never leave dogs or cats unattended in a closed, locked car. Animals do not perspire like humans; they cool themselves by panting and vinyl seats in vehicles get hot under animals' feet and prevent them from perspiring through their paws.
If you must travel with your pet, carry water.
Avoid overexerting your animal in hot weather.
For birds, take caution and place the bird's cage away from direct sunlight during the intense heat of the afternoon. Provide water and fruits and vegetables with high moisture content.

LIBRARIES

The following Seattle Public Library locations are equipped with air conditioning, and serve as cooling centers when the area experiences extreme heat. Please call the individual location before you go for open hours and to verify that the air conditioning is working.