Temperatures are forecasted to be around 100°F for the next several days so it’s important to be prepared for heat safety. The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning from Thursday, July 4 through Sunday, July 7. Residents need to take precautions to stay safe and be aware of the dangers of high heat, which can significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.
Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Spend time in air-conditioned places.
- Wear light-colored, loose clothing.
- Stay out of the sun.
- Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles, as car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in minutes.
- Check up on relatives and friends.
Cooling Centers
Springfield offers several resources to help residents stay cool. City Hall provides air conditioning in public areas and the City Hall fountain will also be running during the heat advisory. Additionally, Willamalane has several facilities available for cooling during their regular business hours.
Springfield’s City Hall building lobby, 225 5th Street (individual department office hours vary)
- Wednesday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Thursday: Closed for Fourth of July Holiday
- Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Saturday: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Sunday: Closed
Willamalane Bob Keefer Center, 250 S. 32nd Street
- Sunday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Wednesday: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Thursday: Closed for Fourth of July Holiday
- Friday: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Saturday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Sunday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Willamalane Park Swim Center, 1276 G Street
- Wednesday: 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Thursday: Closed for Fourth of July Holiday
- Friday: 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Sunday: Closed
Willamalane Adult Activity Center, 215 W. C Street
- Wednesday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Thursday: Closed for Fourth of July Holiday
- Friday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Saturday – Sunday: Closed
Stay Safe During Extreme Heat:
High heat can be extremely dangerous and is a leading cause of weather-related fatalities each year. Be smart and know the signs for heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Knowing the difference can save lives. Lane County Health and Human Services provides guidelines on identifying and responding to these conditions.
Heat Exhaustion Symptoms
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness
- Cold/pale/clammy skin
- Fast/weak pulse
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fainting
Treatment
- Move to a cooler place.
- Lie down.
- Loosen clothing.
- Apply cool, wet cloths.
- Sip water.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last more than an hour.
Heat Stroke Symptoms
- High body temperature (above 103˚F)
- Hot/red/dry or damp skin
- Rapid/strong pulse
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
Treatment
- Call 911 immediately!
- Move person to a cooler place.
- Do not give them fluids.
- Use cool cloths or a cool bath to lower their body temperature until help arrives.
Remember heat stroke is a medical emergency! Recognize the signs and act fast. Stay cool and stay safe.
Additional Resources
