By the Daily Post staff
Today’s high in the mid-Peninsula is expected to reach 95 today, and that has prompted the city of Menlo Park to open four cooling centers.
- Belle Haven Branch Library
413 Ivy Drive
Hours: Noon.–6 p.m. - Onetta Harris Community Center
100 Terminal Ave.
Hours: Noon.–8 p.m. - Menlo Park Main Library
800 Alma St.
Hours: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. - Arrillaga Family Recreation Center
700 Alma St.
Hours: 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
Water is available at all locations.
Here are some pointers from the city about heat:
- Heat is the No. 1 weather-related cause of death in the United States every year.
- With temperatures above 90 degrees, there is an increased risk of heat-related stress and illness. Most susceptible are the very young, the elderly, those without air conditioning and those participating in strenuous outdoor activities.
- Avoid poorly ventilated areas and prolonged work in the sun.
- Keep plenty of fluids on hand and try to stay inside, or take frequent breaks in an air-conditioned environment.
- Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Wear lightweight, loose fitting clothing.
- Never leave children unattended in a vehicle. Check the backseat before exiting. During extreme heat, vehicle temperatures can reach lethal levels in a matter of minutes.
- Routinely check on family members, neighbors, elderly, chronically ill and friends. If they have air conditioning available, encourage them to use it.
- Replace salt and minerals: heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body that need to be replaced. A sports drink can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat.
- If you are on a low-salt diet, have diabetes, high blood pressure or other chronic conditions, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage or taking salt tablets.
