When the summer heat reaches extreme temperatures, it is critical to take steps to keep cool and prevent heat illness. To provide a safe and cool way to protect yourself from the heat, the Detroit Recreation Department has four locations available as respite centers that provide air conditioned comfort and protection from the heat. Please see the information below for tips on keeping cool in summer’s heat, followed by the locations and hours of respite centers.
When temperatures rise above 90 degrees, everyone is at risk, but the elderly and the very young are most susceptible to heat and heat-related illness. Signs of heat-related illness include headache, dizziness, nausea, heavy sweating, confusion and pale or flushed skin. The American Red Cross recommends the following treatment for persons with heat-related illness:
· Move the victim to a cool place.
· Give cool water to drink.
· Apply ice packs or cool wet cloths to the skin.
· If a victim refuses water, vomits, or loses consciousness, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Preventing Heat Illness
· Stay indoors if possible. Stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to a public place with air conditioning. If outside, stay in the shade.
· Drink water. Even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
· Wear light-colored clothing. (Avoid wearing black clothes, especially if you’re in direct sunlight.) Loose fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects away the heat. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
· Never leave a person, especially children or the elderly or a pet in a closed, parked vehicle. The temperature inside the car can increase to 30-40 degrees hotter than the outside temperature.
· Slow down and avoid strenuous activity. If you must work outside, take frequent breaks.
· Visit persons at risk twice daily and watch them for signs of heat illness.
· Speak with your doctor about any medications you are taking to learn if they may interfere with your body’s ability to regulate temperature.
· Do not use salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
Recreation Centers serving as respite centers from the heat:
Crowell Community Center
313.628.2047
16630 Lasher
Hours: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., M-F
Patton Community Center
313.628.2000
2301 Woodmere
Hours: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., M-F
Lasky Recreation Center
313.628.2030
13200 Fenelon
Hours: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., M-F
Heilmann Recreation Center
313.224.9334
19601 Crusade
Hours: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., M-F