Lane County, in partnership with St. Vincent De Paul, to open cooling space

Temperatures in Lane County are forecasted to reach the high 90s and potentially triple digits this weekend, prompting Lane County Health & Human Services to remind all residents to be aware of the signs of heat related illness and to stay safe by staying cool.

Additionally, due to the extreme nature of this heat event and the potential danger to those who do not have adequate cooling resources, Lane County has partnered with St. Vincent De Paul to open a low barrier, daytime cooling space at the Lane Events Center (796 W 13th Ave., Eugene) in Performance Hall Meeting Room 1 (NW corner of the building) from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 6, and Sunday, July 7. Pedestrian access is available on 13th Avenue across from Monroe Street. Animals will be welcome and crated inside the building.

"Typically, we talk about risk to our most vulnerable community members and those that have to work outside as temperatures start to get into the 90s, but with an extended heat event like this everyone in communities across Lane County should proceed with caution and review the signs, symptoms, and how to prevent heat related illness," said Lane County Senior Public Health Officer Patrick Luedtke, M.D.

For an updated heat-related resources and places to cool off, please visit: www.LaneCountyOR.gov/cooling

This site will be updated over the weekend should hours or availability of cooling centers change.

While most public buildings that serve as cooling areas are closed on weekends, there are options open and available in the metro area and other municipalities over the weekend.

REMEMBER: Those at greatest risk for heat-related illness include young children; adults 65 and older; people with chronic illness; and people who work outdoors or have a low income.

The best way to protect yourself from the harmful effects of excessive heat is to stay cool, stay hydrated and stay informed.

• Wear light colored clothing and use sunscreen.
• Schedule outdoor activities during cooler times of the day - like in the morning or evening.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Avoid alcoholic and sugary drinks.
• Stay informed of the weather and watch the Heat Index to help you identify the most dangerous periods during the heat wave.