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Maryland Department of Emergency Management

Harford County Will Open Cooling Centers at Public Libraries on Monday

High temperatures and power outages trigger need for cooling centers

 

(Bel Air, MD) – – With high temperatures and heat index expected to continue into the early part of this week, Harford County Government, in cooperation with Harford County Public Library and the Harford County Health Department are opening cooling centers on Monday, July 2, 2012.

All Harford County Public Libraries will serve as “Cooling Centers” for the public’s use during normal business hours, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Harford County Public Libraries were also used as “Cooling Centers” both Friday and Saturday due to the extreme heat and severe weather conditions.

“The Harford County Public Library under the direction of Mary Hastler is once again partnering with Harford County Government and the Harford County Health Department in providing temporary relief to those without air conditioning during these extremely hot days,” County Executive David R. Craig stated. “We urge our citizens, especially the elderly and those with health conditions to take advantage of our libraries serving as “Cooling Centers” during this challenging time,” the County Executive remarked.

According to the Harford County Health Department, heat illness takes many forms, including heat fatigues, heat syncope (sudden dizziness after exercising in the heat), heat cramps, heat exhaustion or the most serious, heat stroke.

Heat stroke is an advanced form of heat stress that occurs when the body is overwhelmed by heat and unable to control its temperature. A person with a body temperature above 104 degrees is likely suffering from heat stroke and may have symptoms of confusion, combativeness, strong rapid pulse, lack of sweating, dry flushed skin, faintness, staggering, possible delirium or coma. Persons with any of these symptoms should receive immediate medical attention, especially older adults.

For additional information regarding heat health issues and preventive measures, visit the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Extreme Heat website http://dhmh.maryland.gov/extremeheat.SitePages/Home.aspx. or the Harford County Division of Emergency Operations atwww.harfordpublicsafety.org.