County opens temporary cooling station during extreme heat

In response to forecasted extreme temperatures, Moore County will open a temporary cooling station to provide residents with a safe place to cool down during the hottest part of the day.

The cooling station will be located at the Moore County Sports Complex, 155 Hillcrest Park Lane, Carthage, and will be open from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. each day, Thursday, July 2, through Monday, July 6.

The cooling station is intended to offer citizens a temporary, short-term reprieve from the extreme heat. Please note that this facility is not operating as an emergency shelter. No food service or overnight accommodation will be provided.

For the safety and comfort of all visitors, animals are not permitted inside county facilities, except for service animals assisting individuals with disabilities.

Residents visiting the Sports Complex can also enjoy the on-site Splash Pad, which is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Heat Safety Tips:

*Moore County encourages all residents to take precautions during periods of extreme heat by:

*Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated.

*Staying indoors in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible and limiting time in direct sunlight.

*Wearing loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.

*Learning to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

*Avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. If working outdoors, use the buddy system, take frequent breaks, and seek shade whenever possible.

*Checking on neighbors, older adults, and others who may be at higher risk to ensure they have access to cooling and hydration.

*Never leave children or pets unattended in a parked vehicle, even for a short period.

“Moore County encourages residents to take these precautions to help prevent heat-related illnesses and to utilize the temporary cooling station if relief from the heat is needed,” said the county in a press release.

For Moore news delivered straight to your inbox, please click here to sign up for the free Sandhills Sentinel e-newsletter.

Contributed article/Photo via Moore County Parks and Recreation.