Cooling centers considered a key tool in preventing illness for people without air conditioning
Hot weather is expected to impact Washington state through Friday of this week, with predicted daytime temperatures in the 90s or over 100 degrees in some places. The National Weather Service has issued Excessive Heat Warnings for much of central and eastern Washington, and a Heat Advisory is in effect in western parts of the state. The Washington State Department of Health urges people to take precautions to stay cool, healthy, and safe.
Extreme heat is the deadliest weather-related hazard in the United States. Just last year an unprecedented heat dome event in late June to early July contributed to over 100 deaths in Washington.
Even just a few hours in an air-conditioned environment can help relieve heat stress. However, many homes and facilities in our region do not have air conditioning. Cooling centers can help and they are free to the public. Dial 2-1-1 or use the statewide online resource to find a cooling center near you. Language assistance is available.
Other key recommendations to stay safe and healthy include:
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
Never leave any person or pet in a parked vehicle.
Stay indoors and in an air-conditioned environment as much as possible. Visit a cooling center or other public air-conditioned space, like a mall or library. Keep your home cool by closing window shades during the day and using the stove and oven less.
Do not rely on a fan as your only cooling source. Electric fans may provide some comfort, but they won’t prevent heat-related illness when temperatures are very hot.
If you go outside, do so early or late in the day when it’s cooler. Apply sunscreen and wear a hat and light, loose-fitting clothes. Take breaks and seek shade in parks and greenspaces where it will be cooler than paved areas.
Check on friends, family, neighbors, and pets. Check in on and assist those who are vulnerable or at higher risk, such as people who are elderly, ill, or may need help. Protect pets from heat and sun, and beware of asphalt that can burn their paws.
Take action if you notice symptoms of heat illness (dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps). Move to a cooler location to rest for a few minutes and seek medical attention immediately if you do not feel better.
Practice water safety. Always supervise young children closely when in or around water. Wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket that fits well during water activities, like boating or paddleboarding.
Check for restrictions or warnings before lighting any outdoor fires. High temperatures and dry conditions increase wildfire risk.
Read the CDC’s frequently asked questions about extreme heat.
The DOH website is a source for a healthy dose of information. Find it on Facebook and follow on Twitter. Sign up for the DOH blog, Public Health Connection.
Also read:
- Opinion: Historical state income tax and another massive operating budget highlight the end of the 2026 legislative session
Rep. John Ley details the passage of a state income tax, an expanding $80 billion budget, and new Clark County infrastructure funding following the 2026 legislative session. - VIDEO: Legal challenges certain as Gov. Ferguson prepares to sign new income tax
Senate Minority Leader John Braun and other legislators expect legal challenges and initiative efforts to follow Gov. Ferguson’s signature on Washington’s new income tax law affecting high earners and businesses. - Vancouver Fire Department honors firefighters, community members at annual awards ceremony
Acts of bravery, including river rescues and life-saving interventions by both residents and first responders, were recognized at the Vancouver Fire Department’s annual awards ceremony. - ‘Cram the Cruiser’ to benefit Battle Ground and Prairie High Schools
Officer Phil Anderson’s food pantry at Battle Ground High inspired Prairie High to launch its own, providing snacks and building bridges between students and law enforcement. - Opinion: Fighting for transparency in Washington government
A recent court decision allows Washington lawmakers broad new secrecy over internal records, as advocates report rising obstacles to government transparency and public engagement. - New Washington law clarifies what is an ‘election’
After a court ruling challenged the state’s definition of “election,” lawmakers clarified the law to prevent double voting and maintain the integrity of Washington’s ballots. - Opinion: Attacking Democracy in the name of Democracy
Ryan Frost critiques several 2024 legislative bills, warning unchecked Democrat dominance enables policies that erode local accountability, block referenda, and threaten citizen participation.
