June 17, 2009
RIVERSIDE COUNTY
News Release
Contact: Lois J. Carson, Executive Director
Community Action Partnership of Riverside County
Danyte S. Mockus, Epidemiologist
Riverside County Department of Public Health
(951) 358- 5557
Heat warning issued for desert areas, cool centers to open
A heat warning for the desert areas of eastern Riverside County will start on June 18 and cool centers in the affected areas will be open.
The county Department of Public Health issues heat warnings when temperatures are expected to be over 100 degrees for three days or more. Any changes or updates on heat warnings will be posted at cool centers and at www.rivcoph.org/.
Individuals susceptible to heat, such as the elderly, are encouraged to visit a cool center during extended periods of high-heat days. Cool centers will provide snacks and water, in addition to activities and resource information.
People with the following symptoms of excessive heat should try to remain in a cool place and drink water to prevent dehydration:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Weakness or muscle pains
- Nausea and vomiting
For more information or for a list of cool center locations, call (888) 636-8676 or visit www.capriverside.org. Speech or hearing impaired individuals may call TTY (951) 955-5126. For a list of summer-weather information and health recommendations, visit www.rivcoph.org/.
The heat advisories and cool centers are services offered by the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County, Riverside County Department of Public Health, Riverside County Fire Department, Volunteer Center of Riverside County and the American Red Cross.