City Opens Cooling Centers Ahead of Expected High Temperatures
April 7, 2021 - San Antonio
By Jade Esteban Estrada, Staff Writer | San Antonio Sentinel
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- Metro Health advised the San Antonio community of expected high temperatures close to 100 degrees this Thursday, April 8 and Friday, April 9
- The City has opened cooling centers to provide respite from the high temperatures
On Wednesday, the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District advised residents of forecasted high temperatures close to 100 degrees this Thursday, April 8 and Friday, April 9.
The City of San Antonio has opened cooling centers to provide respite from the high temperatures expected in the coming days. The centers will observe Covid-19 precautions, including mandatory face coverings, screening, sanitation, and physical distancing guidelines.
“With high temperatures forecasted for Thursday and Friday, please remember that excessive heat can pose a health threat,” said San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh in a press release. “The City of San Antonio is providing several community centers that follow strict Covid-19 protocols to ensure everyone’s safety. We encourage those who do not have a way to stay cool at home to visit these locations during the day.”
Adults over 65, children under four, and people with pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart disease, and those without access to air conditioning are at the highest risk on days with high temperatures, according to a City spokesperson.
Drinking plenty of water and protecting oneself from the sun are important precautions. Additionally, folks are encouraged to call and check on their neighbors, friends or family members who may be at high risk and ensure access to heat relief and hydration.
Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are possible health effects. Warning signs of heat stroke include: red, hot, and moist or dry skin, no sweating, a strong, rapid pulse or a slow, weak pulse, nausea, confusion or unusual behavior. If a child exhibits any of these signs, cool the child rapidly with cool water (not an ice bath) and call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
The City added that neither children nor pets should be left alone in vehicles. “If you see a child or pet locked in a hot car or in the back of a truck, take action immediately. Take note of the car’s description, including license plate number, and call 911 or 210-207-SAPD immediately,” stated the City spokesperson.
In regard to a pet, Animal Care Services should be notified by calling 311. Per city ordinance, both police and animal care officers have the right to break a car’s window if a child or animal is endangered inside a vehicle.
Community members may visit the Metro Health or the San Antonio Office of Emergency Management websites for a listing of cooling centers. Residents can also contact the National Weather Service for the most current weather conditions at their website for hourly weather.
Jade Esteban Estrada is a staff writer for the San Antonio Sentinel, where he covers public health and other citywide issues. jade@sasentinel.com | Twitter: @getjaded