As temperatures heat up, city opens cooling stations

July 29, 2009 12:54 pm
A fisherman enjoys calm water off Fay Bainbridge State Park. Temperatures topped 100 degrees on Bainbridge Wednesday.
A fisherman enjoys calm water off Fay Bainbridge State Park. Temperatures topped 100 degrees on Bainbridge Wednesday.

With temperatures expected to reach the high 90s this week, the city has opened several air conditioned “cooling stations” where islanders can get relief from the heat.

Cooling stations will be open at the following locations:

  • The police station at SR-305 and Winslow Way. Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Fire Station 21 at SR-305 and Madison Avenue. Open noon to 5 p.m.
  • The senior center on Brien Drive. Open 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Wednesday night’s Concert in the Park will be indoors at the Bainbridge Commons.

A National Weather Service excessive heat and stagnant air warning is in effect through Friday evening.

Bainbridge Police Chief Jon Fehlman said it’s especially important for islanders to check in on their neighbors during these hot days.

“Sustained high temperatures pose a special danger for the elderly, house-bound and other vulnerable individuals who may have no way to get out of the heat,” Fehlman said. “We encourage island residents to check in on neighbors, family members or others who might need assistance at least twice a day. If you believe you may be vulnerable, arrange for someone to check in with you.”

For police assistance, islanders can call the department at 842-5211 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. and 911 at night or in case of emergency.

The city released these additional tips for beating the heat:

  • Drink lots of cool water in order to remain well-hydrated.
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, heavy meals and hot foods.
  • Limit exposure to the sun, especially at mid-day.
  • Wear light-colored, light-weight clothes and a fabric hat or bandana that can be soaked with cold water to help keep you cool.
  • Don’t leave any person or animal in a parked vehicle, even with the air conditioning on. The heat inside a vehicle can be 20 degrees hotter than the outside air, and can render a child or a vulnerable adult unconscious in a matter of minutes. Anyone who sees a child or animal left in a parked vehicle should call 911 immediately.
  • Make sure pets have plenty of water, and outdoor animals have access to shade all day.

For more tips see the Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management homepage.