Mother Nature has decided to turn up the heat on San Diego County this weekend, so officials are getting the word out about places to cool down.
The county has selected 115 buildings where you can stop by and get a little free air-conditioning.
Check out the cool zone closest to you with this interactive map, this list or by calling 211.
The Borrego Springs Library will also stay open for extended hours Saturday (from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.) and Sunday (12 p.m. to 4 p.m.) to help residents beat the heat in one of the hottest parts of the county.
Officials say even if you can spend a few hours in air-conditioning, your body will stay cooler. If the temperature creeps over 90 degrees, don’t just depend on fans to keep you cool.
The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning that should last until 9 p.m. Monday for the desert areas of East San Diego County. Temperatures there could reach 120 degrees.
Those over 65, infants, children and people with medical conditions are most likely to suffer heat illness. Officials say if you live near an elderly neighbor, you should check on their well-being during the heat.
Low-income, homebound seniors and people with disabilities can request a free electric fan through CoolZones.org if they cannot make it to a cool zone.
To avoid heat stroke or heat exhaustion, the county put together these tips:
- Stay in an air-conditioned area during the hottest hours of the day
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing
- Drink plenty of water (avoid alcohol and sugary drinks) and don't wait until you are thirsty
- Take cool showers
- Never leave a child, elderly person, or pet unattended in a car
- Avoid unnecessary hard work or activities outside during the hottest part of the day
- Avoid unnecessary sun exposure and wear a wide-brim hat if you need to be in the sun
- Avoid using the oven to cook
If you or someone you know shows signs of heat stroke, such as dizziness, nausea, confusion and headaches, call 911 and cool them down. You can move them to a shaded area, spray them with cool water, place them in a cool shower and monitor their body temperature. However, the county says you should not give them anything to drink.
