Cooling centers opened across multiple counties in the region

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser declared an extended heat emergency through Sunday as the DMV is battling extreme temperatures. 

“When temperatures or heat indexes hit 95 degrees, we call it a heat emergency. When we have it multiple days in a row, four days or more, we call it an extended emergency," said Clint Osborn, the Acting Director of DC Homeland Security & Emergency Management.

D.C.'s outdoor pools will remain open for the remainder of the outdoor pool season on their weekly six-day schedules. Find the regular outdoor pool schedule at dpr.dc.gov/outdoorpools.

“Rec centers, day centers and our libraries and they’re spread throughout the city," said Osborn.

Spray Parks, which serve as cooling centers, are now open seven days a week. DC’s public pools, however, will be closed through Friday before opening six days a week starting Monday, June 24.

Medics with DC Fire and EMS say the number one way to stay safe in the heat is to stay hydrated.

“Don’t overwork yourself," said Arturo Contreras, a firefighter and medic with DC Fire and EMS. "The minute you start feeling cramps in your legs or you feel fatigued, altered mental status, you feel disoriented, stop what you’re doing and get some help or take yourself to a cool place and cool off.”

Pay attention to your body and if you’re driving, pay attention to your passengers.

Temperatures inside a parked car can rise to dangerous levels rapidly 

“We say look before you lock and that just means look in your backseat or back of your car before you lock your doors to ensure you don’t forget and leave a pet or a child in the car," said Osborn.

He says if you find a pet or child locked inside a parked car in the heat, call 911.

Maryland

In Prince George's County, officials announced the opening of multiple cooling centers throughout the area. County Executive Angela Alsobrooks emphasized the importance of the cooling centers, “The safety and well-being of our residents are our top priorities. As temperatures soar, we encourage everyone to take advantage of these cooling centers, stay hydrated, and check on their neighbors, particularly the elderly and those with health conditions.” 

Virginia

For resident who live in the commonwealth, you can find cooling centers throughout Fairfax County. To find your nearest cooling center click here. 

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