Emergency Services Warns of Extended Heat Wave, Cites Local ‘Cooling Centers’ Where Temporary Relief is Available

Monday afternoon, shortly before 4 p.m., with the local temperature in Front Royal and Warren County hovering at 92 degrees Fahrenheit – with a “Feels like 98” on my phone weather app – and more of the same forecast for the next six days, Warren County Fire & Rescue/Emergency Services issued a detailed Press Release warning about potential physical consequences for people and pets. The release from the desk of Assistant Fire Chief Gerry Maiatico outlined recommended safeguards and some available local facilities where people without access to air conditioning can seek temporary relief in air-conditioned public spaces.

High-risk groups for physical consequences of extended periods of high temperatures were identified as the elderly and very young, as well as pets, particularly those kept outside for extended periods of time in such weather. My above-referenced weather app projected high temperatures beginning today, Monday, June 17, 92; Tuesday, 92; Wednesday, 90; Thursday, 93; Friday, 95; Saturday, 96; and Sunday, 95, with increasing humidity and little rain forecast.

Below is the local Emergency Services release in its entirety:

The County of Warren and Office of Emergency Management continue to monitor the National Weather Service forecast of a prolonged period of hot temperatures expected this week, with increasing humidity throughout the week. The combination of heat and humidity could result in heat indices above 100 degrees Tuesday through Sunday afternoon, mainly across the lower elevations.

These high temperatures, with high humidity, could be dangerous for those spending too much time outdoors. At-risk populations include the elderly and the very young. Also, do not forget about your pets; they should have plenty of water and shade.

Cooling Center relief:

Due to the extreme heat, residents can visit the following temporary cooling center locations:

Samuels Public Library 330 East Criser Road, Front Royal VA 22630 (Hours Vary);

Warren County Community Center 538 Villa Avenue, Front Royal, VA 22630 (Hours Vary);

Warren County Public Safety Building Community Room (lobby area) 200 Skyline Vista Drive Front Royal, VA 22630 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.);

Warren County Senior Center (Adults over 60)  1217 Commonwealth Avenue, Front Royal, VA 22630 (9 a.m.-5 p.m. – Call Ahead);

Warren County Splash 200 East 8th Street, Front Royal, VA (Hours Vary – Weather Permitting).

Cooling Centers are a place where individuals can go for a temporary escape from the extreme temperatures, they are not shelters where there are cots and food available, but simply a place to rest in an air-conditioned room with access to water to help prevent heat related injuries or illness.

There is hot, and then there is hot! Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat, your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death. Extreme heat is responsible for the highest annual deaths among all weather-related hazards. By following these simple safety tips, you can better protect yourself, your family, and your pets from the effects of high heat:

Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day.

If air conditioning is unavailable, go to a cooling center.

Take cool showers or baths.

Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.

Use your oven less to help reduce the temperature in your home.

If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.

Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors during midday heat, if possible.

Check on family members, older adults, and neighbors.

Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Consider pet safety. If they are outside, ensure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade. Asphalt and dark pavement can be very hot to your pet’s feet.

If you have an emergency, please dial 911.

Be aware of heat-related symptoms, which can lead to death.

(From a release by WC Fire & Rescue)