City of Detroit announces 'cooling centers' for summer heat

With extreme heat being a staple of Michigan’s summers, many are left without proper shelter during these unbearable conditions. As a result, the city of Detroit announced that cooling centers will be available to those who need them throughout the summer.

According to a press release, “When the summer heat reaches extreme temperatures, it is critical to take steps to keep cool and prevent heat illness."

The Detroit Parks & Recreation Department and the Detroit Public Library have cooling centers available that provide air-conditioned comfort and protection from the heat.  The cooling centers are open throughout the summer during excessively hot days.

Knowing that children as well as the elderly are most susceptible to heat related ailments, the release also gives proper instruction for preventing and treating emergencies.

• Stay indoors if possible. Stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air-conditioning, go to a public place that does, including the City of Detroit cooling centers. If outside, stay in the shade.
  
• Drink water. Even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
  
• Wear light-colored clothing. (Avoid wearing black clothes, especially if you're in direct sunlight.) Loose fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
  
• Never leave a person, especially children or the elderly, or a pet in a closed, parked vehicle. The temperature inside the car can become 30 to 40 degrees hotter than the outside temperature.
  
• Slow down and avoid strenuous activity. If you must work outside, take frequent breaks.
  
• Visit at-risk people twice a day and watch them for signs of heat illness.
  
• Speak with your doctor about any medications you are taking to learn whether they may interfere with your body’s ability to regulate temperature.
  
• Do not use salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
  

The full list of cooling centers can be found below.