With metroplex temperatures in the triple digits, cooling off can be a matter of life or death.
The National Weather Service is declaring an Excessive Heat Warning for DFW until 9 p.m. on August 19. As heat index values of up to 111° are anticipated, finding a place to chill is essential.
Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) has reported the first death from a heat-related illness this season, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
“We encourage everyone to take precautions to protect themselves and their children from heat-related illness as temperatures remain high throughout the summer. Hydrate constantly and limit your time outdoors to protect against the intense heat,” DCHHS Director Dr. Philip Huang said in a press release.
Thankfully, the Salvation Army is opening its doors to bring relief.
Fox 4 KDFW reported that eleven cooling stations have been established in Dallas, Denton, Collin, Tarrant, and Ellis counties.
The facilities are open to everyone, but they are mainly intended for individuals who are at the highest risk of heat-related ailments, such as older individuals and those experiencing homelessness.
To learn more about where the cooling stations are located, continue reading (Fox 4 KDFW):
“It’s extremely critical. We know that this heat can be life-threatening, especially for those who are young or elderly or who have life-threatening issues. So, we want everyone who is needing to seek care from the heat, solace from the heat, to come on in to the Salvation Army,” said Capt. Maxie DeBlanc with Salvation Army of North Texas.
The following locations are open as cooling stations:
Dallas County
- Carr P. Collins Social Service Center
- Garland Corps Community Center
- Irving Corps Community Center
- Oak Cliff Corps Community Center
- Pleasant Grove Corps Community Center
Denton County
- Denton Corps Community Center
- Lewisville Corps Community Center
Collin County
- Plano Corps Community Center
- McKinney Corps Community Center
Tarrant County
- Arlington Corps Community Center
- Northside Corps Community Center
- J.E. & L.E. Mabee Social Service Center (providing heat relief services)
Ellis County
- Waxahachie Corps Community Center
The Salvation Army is also giving out food, water, and fans to those in need.
Pets are welcome.