With temperatures on the rise, the City of Renton is asking citizens to be proactive in planning to stay safe in the heat and take appropriate measures to protect their personal health and homes.
The temperatures is forecast to reach into the mid 90s this weekend.
Here are some suggestions where to keep cool.
The Renton Community Center at 1715 Maple Valley Highway is air-conditioned and open to the public Monday through Thursday 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The Renton Senior Activity Center, 211 Burnett Avenue N., also has air conditioning available and will be open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 14, 2 p.m. to midnight; and Sunday, Aug. 15, from noon to 9 p.m.
Other public places such as libraries, movie theaters and stores are also good places to beat the heat.
“Many people enjoy the summer sun; however, high temperatures can pose a significant health risk everyone should be aware of,” said Deputy Fire Chief William Flora. “Although most heat-related illnesses involve persons who are elderly or have chronic illnesses, we know that children, athletes, outdoor workers, and pets are also at risk. Citizens are encouraged to be aware of the dangers and take precautions to protect themselves and those they care for.”
The city also offers the following additional information for protection during the heat wave:
Health and safety
• Whenever possible, stay out of the sun. When in the sun, wear sunscreen (at least SPF 15) and a hat to protect your face and head. Dress in lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
• Be safe near water. Swim in guarded areas.
• Drink fluids – particularly water – even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
• Avoid strenuous activity, especially during the sun’s peak hours — 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Cool down with repeated cool baths or showers.
• Never leave children, seniors, or pets in a parked car during periods of intense summer heat, even for a few minutes.
• Check in frequently with elderly residents who may need assistance during the hot weather.
Recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke:
• Heat exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, headache, weak pulse, dizziness, exhaustion, fainting, nausea or vomiting, and cold, clammy skin. Body temperature will seem normal.
• Heat stroke: Symptoms include flushed, hot, dry skin; weak or rapid pulse; shallow breathing; lack of sweating; throbbing headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion; and unconsciousness. Body temperature will be elevated, and victim should receive immediate medical attention.
Fire prevention
• Observe all fire safety regulations, including outdoor burning bans and fireworks bans. Fireworks are illegal within the City of Renton.
• Extinguish cigarettes or other burning material in an ashtray, never outdoors.
• Do not drive over dry grass or brush. A running vehicle may ignite the dry vegetation.
Home security
• More than 50 percent of residential burglaries in Renton are non-forced entry, meaning the criminal entered via an unsecured door or window. While it is tempting to leave your windows open at night during hot weather, doing so may increase your likelihood of burglary.
• Ground-floor windows and doors should be closed and locked when you are not in the immediate vicinity and when you are asleep. Second-story windows that can be easily accessed by climbing a tree (or other means) should also be locked at night. Even when you are awake, it only takes a moment for a criminal to enter through an open door or window. Protect your property by keeping doors and windows that are not in your direct sight closed and locked.
