Summer Heat Safety

• Find a day center or other public space with air conditioning on this list of cooling spaces in King County.
• Enjoy Seattle's beaches, pools, spray parks, and wading pools. Check for current days and hours of operation.
• Locate a Seattle Parks and Recreation community center.
• 17 branches of Seattle Public Library have air conditioning.

Change Your Activity Level and Hydrate

• Do less physical activity during heat. Move to the shade.
• Limit outdoor activities to before 11am or after 6pm because it is cooler.
• Stop all activity and get to a cool place if you feel faint or weak.
• Monitor children and others who rely on you to keep them cool and hydrated.
• Drink plenty of water before you go out in the heat.
• By the time you feel thirsty you are already starting to be dehydrated.
• While exposed to heat, drink 3/4 to 1 quart of water per hour. This is about 2 standard water bottles every hour.

Plan Ways to Keep Cool at Home

• Prepare for a heat event.
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun.
• Cool your body down quickly by wearing a wet scarf, bandana, or shirt.
• Try to avoid using the oven.

Never Leave Kids or Pets in a Parked Car

Even if the windows are cracked open, it only takes a few minutes for a small body to overheat. This can lead to severe medical problems and even death.

Check on Neighbors, Family, and Friends in the Heat

When the temperature is above 90 degrees certain populations are more at risk for heat-related illness.

Before a heat event:

• Get to know your neighbors.
• Make a plan for how you will support each other.
• Know the signs of heat-related illness.

During heat, check in with:

• People who work or live outside
• People in homes without air conditioning
• Adults over age 65
• Children
• Individuals with health conditions

What to ask:

• Do you have an air conditioner? Is it running?
• Do you have a cool place to sleep and sit?
• Are you drinking a cup of water every hour?
• Do you have enough food, supplies, ice, and medicine?
• Can I pick something up for you? Can I run an errand for you?
• Are you alone? Is someone staying with you?
• Do you have a family member you can stay with for a few days? Can I help put you in touch?