AKRON -- Due to the extreme heat Northeast Ohio has been experiencing, Summit County will open a cooling center Saturday, July 7, 2012.
It will be located at the American Red Cross of Portage and Summit Counties at 501 West Market Street, Akron.
The cooling center will be open for Summit County residents in need from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The air conditioned facility will offer water and seating only. Feel free to bring food, medications and necessities as well as coolers/containers that individuals may need during their stay.
However, no storage or refrigeration will be available.
If you need information on METRO routes, call 330-762-7267.
The County urges residents with no air conditioning, fans, and/or electricity to seek shelter and stay cool.
There are good places to visit in such times of extreme heat such as local libraries, local merchants, other air conditioned facilities possibly such as malls or movie theatres.
With heat on the rise we ask residents to use extra care to avoid heat-related illness.
Check on older or vulnerable neighbors, family and friends. Use common sense in these conditions and stay hydrated. Check on animals as well.
Steps to prevent heat-related illnesses, injuries, and deaths during hot weather include:
• Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and sunscreen
• Schedule outdoor activities carefully
• Pace yourself
• Take cool showers or baths to cool down
• Check on a friend or neighbor and have someone do the same for you
• Do not leave children in cars
For additional information on Saturday's Cooling Center please contact Summit County Public Health at one of the following numbers: 330-812-7633, 330-313-4963, or 330-313-4950.
WKYC-TV