Hot Weather Returns: Be Safe & Keep Cool

Practice Hot Weather Safety

Even moderate heat can affect individuals sensitive to hotter temperatures, especially those without adequate cooling or hydration. If needed, be safe and keep cool with these hot weather tips:

• Dress in lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors that absorb sun rays.
• Drink plenty of water or sports drink. Avoid high intake of alcohol, caffeine, and sugar as they speed up fluid loss.
• Reduce time in the sun during the heat of day. Move outdoor activities to cooler times of day.
• Never leave people or pets in a closed, parked car.
• Check on your pets frequently and provide them with plenty of water. 
• Minimize direct exposure to the sun. Wearing sunscreen is the easiest way to protect your skin from the sun.
• Keep window coverings closed during the day to block the sun's heat. 
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Eat light, cool, easy-to-digest foods such as fruit or salads. 
• Take a cool bath or shower if you feel yourself overheating. Use moist towels to cool down as needed.
• Check on vulnerable family, friends, and neighbors.

Palo Alto Cooling Centers

Palo Alto libraries serve as Cooling Centers during normal business hours to support community health. Drop in at these locations to escape the heat:

• College Terrace Library: Located at 2300 Wellesley St. Palo Alto CA 94306. Open Tuesday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

• Downtown Library: Located at 270 Forest Ave. Palo Alto CA 94301. Open Tuesday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

• Mitchell Park Library: Located at 3700 Middlefield Rd Palo Alto CA 94303. Open Monday – Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

• Rinconada Library: Located at 1213 Newell Rd. Palo Alto CA 94303. Open Friday – Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursday from noon to 8 p.m.