Wake County Opens Cooling Stations to Protect Residents from Extreme Heat

With heat index values expected to reach triple digits over the next few days, Wake County is opening temporary cooling stations for those who don’t have a place to seek relief from soaring temperatures. Cooling stations will open Sunday and offer residents a safe reprieve at least through Wednesday, depending on updated forecasts.

“Summer is here, and so is the extreme heat,” said Wake County Fire Services and Emergency Management Deputy Director Josh Creighton. “Keeping residents safe and healthy is one of Wake County’s top priorities, and we encourage anyone who needs relief from the heat to take advantage of these opportunities.”

The schedule for the cooling stations is listed below. Please note that Tuesday, July 4, is a County holiday and all cooling station locations will be closed. 

Sunday, 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Monday and Wednesday, normal operating hours

  • Wake County Public Libraries locations

Opening and closing times for libraries vary, so visitors should check online or call their local library for site-specific information.

Monday and Wednesday, 8:30 a.m to 5:15 p.m.:

Sites that are not normally open to the public, such as EMS stations, fire stations and county fleet maintenance buildings, will not be available as cooling stations.

Staying Safe in Extreme Heat

Adults older than 65, children younger than four, people with existing medical conditions and those without access to air conditioning are at the greatest risk on days with high temperatures. Drinking plenty of water and staying out of the sun are critical precautions. People should also check on their neighbors who may be at high risk and ensure they have access to heat relief and hydration.

To stay safe and cool during extreme heat, residents are encouraged to:

  • Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun;
     
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible;
     
  • Familiarize themselves with the medical conditions that can result from over-exposure to heat, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke;
     
  • Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks; and
     
  • Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
Department
Health & Human Services
Category
Press Release