Sussex County opens cooling stations for public relief

Sussex County officials announced June 23 that several facilities are designated as cooling stations through Wednesday, June 25, as National Weather Service forecasters predict temperatures rising into the mid- and upper 90s during that period.

An extreme heat warning is in effect for Sussex County until 8 p.m., June 25. Possible showers and thunderstorms later in the week could bring some relief, sending temperatures back to the upper 80s by the weekend. 

Select county facilities and partner locations at 11 independent community libraries are always available as cooling stations in the summer during their regular business hours, offering the public a respite from the heat and humidity. The air-conditioned county sites include:

• County Administration Building, 2 The Circle, Georgetown, open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday
• South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Ave., Bethany Beach, open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday and Tuesday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday; and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday
• Milton Library, 121 Union St., Milton, open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday and Tuesday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday; and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday.   

Sussex County paramedics will make routine stops at the county facilities, as time permits, to answer any heat-related questions and/or concerns. Free, individual servings of bottled water will be available during this period to help the public cool off. Anyone visiting a relief station should bring any needed medications and/or specialty items.

For a map of designated cooling stations in Sussex County, visit tinyurl.com/bde2v3mv.

Residents and visitors are urged to limit exposure outside, particularly during the hottest part of the day, roughly from 1 to 6 p.m. Those who must be outside should take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water.
 
Here are some hot-weather safety tips:
 
• Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing since it deflects sunlight and will not absorb heat like dark materials do
• Stay in properly ventilated areas
• Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day
• Have plenty of water available; avoid alcoholic beverages
• Be aware of the signs of heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke, and seek medical attention if necessary.

Signs of heat cramps can include muscular pains and spasms from heavy exertion. Resting in a cooler area, taking occasional sips of water and stretching the muscle mildly can counter the effects of heat cramps. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are much more serious, and may require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include a pale or flushed appearance, as well as headache and nausea. Heat stroke symptoms include rapidly increased body temperature, loss of consciousness, rapid or weak pulse and rapid, shallow breathing.
 
Be sure to check on friends, relatives and neighbors, particularly the elderly and young children, who may be at risk for exposure to the heat. Remember to give pets extra water, provide shade or bring them into a residence where temperatures are cooler.