EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — As triple-digit heat hits the Borderland, City officials are urging people to protect themselves from the rising temperatures by sharing resources and tips.
Cooling Centers
The City of El Paso is reminding people that its indoor, air-conditioned spaces are open and available to the public looking for shelter from the heat.
The following recreation centers are available Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Closed on Sundays:
Valle Bajo (7380 Alameda)Marty Robbins (11600 Vista Del Sol)Galatzan (650 Wallenberg)Nations Tobin (8831 Railroad)
Meanwhile, the following public libraries will be available Monday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday, 1 to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m. (Main Library only):
Armijo Library (620 E. 7th)Clardy Fox (5515 Robert Alva)Dorris Van Doren (551 Redd)Esperanza Moreno (12480 Pebble Hills)Irving Schwartz (1865 Dean Martin)Jose Cisneros/Cielo Vista (1300 Hawkins)Judge Marquez (610 N. Yarbrough)Main Library (501 N. Oregon)Memorial Park (3200 Copper)Richard Burges (9600 Dyer Ste. C)Sergio Troncoso (9321 Alameda)Westside (125 Belvidere)
Besides these City facilities, people are encouraged to visit malls and shopping centers when looking for a cool place to rest and hydrate.
RECOMMENDED: Weather Warn Issued Through Friday
Fans
The City also said that through its Extreme Weather Task Force, it has fans available for people; they just need to call 211 to see if they are eligible for help. Furthermore, fan donations are being accepted at all El Paso and Horizon City fire stations.
Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses
The signs and symptoms are:
Heavy sweating, nausea, muscle crampsDizziness, fainting, or confusionPale, clammy skin or a rapid, weak pulseIn severe cases: high body temperature, unconsciousness
Public Health officials emphasize that children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with medical conditions are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
The City said anyone experiencing signs of heat stroke should call 911 immediately and be moved to a cool place.
RECOMMENDED: Triple-digit heat: How El Paso lifeguards battle rising temps
Prevention Tips
To avoid heat illnesses, people are encouraged to:
Stay hydrated with non-sugary, non-alcoholic fluidsWear lightweight, light-colored clothing and wide-brimmed hatsAvoid outdoor activities during peak heat hoursStay indoors in air-conditioned spaces when possibleUse sunscreen and take frequent breaks if working outdoors
The City also emphasized that NEVER leave children, older adults, or pets unattended in a parked vehicle—even with windows cracked or the AC running.
People are also being asked to use the “Buddy System,” meaning check on your neighbors, co-workers, or relatives who may be at risk of a heat-related illness.
Protect Pets
The City is also reminding people to check on their pets:
Ensure pets have access to shade and fresh waterAvoid walking pets on hot pavementKeep pets indoors during the hottest parts of the dayNever leave pets alone in parked vehicles
Veterinarians also recommend testing pets for heartworm during warm months.
For after-hours help or overnight shelter referrals, people can call 311.
For emergencies, always call 911.
More tips and resources are available at www.ElPasoReady.org/extreme-heat and EPHealth.com under the “Be Climate Ready” tab.
Sign up to receive the top interesting stories from in and around our community once daily in your inbox.