City of Providence Officials Urge Community Members to Exercise Caution During Expected Extreme Heat Conditions

Thursday, August 1, 2024

Cooling centers, pools and waterparks will be open to the public

Mayor Brett P. Smiley, the Providence Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) and the Providence Recreation Department today urged Providence community members to exercise caution during the expected period of dangerous heat and humidity. The National Weather Service has forecasted high temperatures from Thursday, August 1 through Saturday, August 3, with heat index temperatures expected to reach 94-96 degrees in the City of Providence.

Cooling centers will be available and open from Thursday, August 1 through Saturday, August 3. For a full list of cooling center locations and hours visit https://www.providenceri.gov/pema/providence-cooling-centers/.

Anyone wishing to utilize free cooling center services should follow the below procedures and guidelines:

· Only certified service animals with documentation of status paperwork will be permitted inside cooling centers. No other pets will be allowed inside the facility.

· Free bottled water will be available at all cooling centers.

Pools and waterparks will be open for extended hours from 12PM - 7PM on Thursday, August 1 and Friday, August 2. For a full list of pool and waterparklocations that will be open visit https://rec.providenceri.gov/facilities/.

During extreme temperatures, heat-related illnesses are possible with outdoor exposure and strenuous activity. These effects are cumulative over consecutive days. The elderly, youth and individuals with illnesses are especially vulnerable to high heat conditions. The City and PEMA are asking residents to take precautions and are providing the following tips and suggestions.

Extreme Heat Safety Tips:

· Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.

· Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty; avoid drinks with caffeine.

· Limit your outdoor activities to the evening hours if possible.

· Wear loose-fitting clothing that is light in color; wear brimmed hats and sunscreen SPF 15 or higher.

· Use a buddy system when working outdoors and take frequent breaks to cool down.

· Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly and people with special needs.

· Do not leave children or pets in cars.

· Do not open fire hydrants to cool down, it is against the law; report any open fire hydrant to the fire department.

· Recognize the signs and symptoms of heat-related emergencies.

For more information, please visit the City's website.Stay informed on upcoming weather events or possible storms by following City of Providence, PEMA, and Providence Recreation Departmentsocial media platforms.

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