Hazelwood Offers Cooling Centers, Survival Tips to Help Residents Cope with Extreme Heat

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for the St. Louis metropolitan area which is in effect until 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 26.

Hazelwood residents are encouraged to take proactive measures to stay cool, and to check on their elderly neighbors and family members to ensure everyone survives St. Louis’ hottest summer on record, announced Hazelwood Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director Dave Radel.

For those seeking relief from the extreme heat, the City of Hazelwood has opened both of its recreational facilities, and , as cooling centers during the day for local
residents.

Their street addresses are listed below:
Hazelwood Community Center
1186 Teson Road
(White Birch Park)
Civic Center East
8969 Dunn Road
(Outer road next to I-270)

They will be open as cooling centers during the following hours: Monday-Thursday, 8 am to 9 pm;
Friday and Saturday, 8 am to 5 pm; and Sunday, 1 pm to 9 pm.
Chief Radel also offers these Hot Weather Survival Tips:

• Physically check on an elderly family member, neighbor or acquaintance multiple times per day.
People age 65 and older may not compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to respond to
rising room temperatures. Mobilize Neighborhood Watch Groups to conduct wellness checks
throughout the community.

• If you have an AC/Central Air unit, turn it on to keep your living space cool. Don’t let a higher
than normal utility bill cause you to suffer a heat-related illness. Agencies and programs are available
to assist with bill payments. Call 2-1-1 or (800) 427-4626.

• Keep temperatures within the home at 78° F or below. If your AC/Central Air unit isn’t working,
please call 2-1-1 for connection with an agency that can assist you.

• If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, go to a cooling center nearby or to a public place
such as St. Louis Mills or Prairie Commons Public Library. A few hours in a cooled location can
help prevent heat-related illnesses.

• Take a cool shower or bath.

• Keep the lights off, refrain from using the oven/stove for cooking to help reduce energy usage and
keep temperatures cool within the home.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
Refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages or soda with large amounts of sugar.

• If at any time you feel faint or fatigued due to the weather, seek professional medical help
immediately. As always, in an emergency call 9-1-1.
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