San Diego City Wire

With the National Weather Service issuing an excessive heat warning in San Diego County deserts for Friday and Saturday, the County is reminding residents about County Cool Zones and offering tips to protect themselves from the heat.

The weather service has indicated that temperatures could reach dangerously high levels in county deserts—up to 112 degrees today and 116 degrees tomorrow—from 10 a.m. Friday until 8 p.m. Saturday.

County health officials urge people in affected areas to take extra precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses, particularly paying attention to children, the elderly, and pets.

The County’s Cool Zones, including its 33 branch libraries, community centers, and other locations, provide safe, air-conditioned sanctuaries from the heat.

Signs of an overly high body temperature (103 degrees or higher), heatstroke, or exhaustion can include dizziness, nausea, confusion, and headache. If someone exhibits these symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately and begin cooling the individual by moving them to shade, spraying them with cool water and fanning them. If they are alert, place them in a cool shower. Continue monitoring their body temperature and cooling efforts without giving them fluids to drink.

A complete list and map of County Cool Zone sites with their hours and locations are available online. The site includes a map feature where residents can type in their address to find nearby locations. People can also call 2-1-1 for assistance in finding a location or for help with free transportation if they cannot get to a Cool Zone site.

For further information:

County Communications Office

communications@sdcounty.ca.gov

619-595-4633

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