Auburn opens cooling center in response to heat warning

Published 1:19 pm Friday, June 26, 2015

The National Weather Service has issued a heat warning from 12 p.m. Friday, June 26 to 5 a.m. Sunday, June 28.

Auburn has responded by opening a cooling center at Auburn City Hall, 25 W Main St.

It will be open until 9 p.m., Friday and on Saturday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. The center is open to people of all ages and to properly caged/restrained pets. Some pet cages are available on-site.

A heat warning means that a period of hot temperatures is expected.

People are advised to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, and if possible to stay in an air-conditioned room and out of the sun. Check on relatives and neighbors, particularly those with health issues that may make them more susceptible to heat illnesses.

Malls, movie theaters, restaurants, and libraries are other places to stay cool during normal business hours.

Do not leave pets or children in the car. The temperature in a vehicle is much higher than outside, and it only takes a few minutes for severe medical problems and even death to occur. If you know you will be visiting a place where pets are not allowed, it is best to leave them at home.

For more information, contact the City’s Emergency Management Division at 253-876-1925, or visit www.auburnwa.gov/disaster.