As the mercury climbs, Clackamas County responds with an opening of cooling centers, a beacon of respite for those lacking the solace of air conditioning, in light of the heat advisory from the National Weather Service, spanning from noon Tuesday, July 15, through 10 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16. With temperatures anticipated to scorch between the low-90s and 100 degrees, Clackamas County authorities have assembled a network of cooling centers, which include locations across Canby, Estacada, Gladstone, Happy Valley, Lake Oswego, Milwaukie, Molalla, Oregon City, Sandy, Welches, West Linn, and Wilsonville.
The consistent thread woven through the fabric of this preparation effort is the focus on the vulnerable, the elderly, the unsheltered, and those gripped by chronic illness, for whom the county is assessing needs, possibly providing overnight sheltering during this sweltering spell, details on these vulnerable populations and their potential need for overnight sheltering have been outlined on the county's website. Recommendations to protect oneself from the oppressive heat, passed down from Clackamas County, include staying hydrated with water and avoiding beverages that dehydrate, such as alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, along with seeking the refuge of cooler, shaded areas during peak hours.
Understanding the risks associated with such intense heat, Clackamas County has provided a litany of tips to ensure personal safety and comfort: closing curtains during the day, wearing light, loose clothing, and monitoring those particularly susceptible to heat's harsh embrace. They have not forgotten our four-legged dependents, advising never to leave a pet in a car on hot days and recommending morning or evening walks to avoid scorching pavements that can injure tender paw pads.
As the community braces for the heat wave, individuals are urged to limit exposure during the fiercest hours, seek shade to recuperate, and generously lather sunscreen on unprotected skin, with Clackamas County explicitly mandating employer responsibility to provide water, rest and shade for employees during the workday.
