Stay safe in extreme heat: Barberton and Norton establish cooling centers

BGNN staff report

Temperatures are expected to reach 90 degrees and above this week in the Barberton and Norton area and local government agencies are prepared to help residents avoid heat-related health risks.

Because of forecasted high temperatures this week, the Norton Fire Division Central Training Room has been designated as a cooling center. The cooling center may be utilized at any time for those in need when the temperature is above 90 degrees, according to the City of Norton. For more information, call 330-825-7815.

Also, city officials would like residents to be aware that the City of Norton has granted approval for Republic Services to initiate early trash pickups for this week. Routes will begin one hour earlier to ensure the safety of Republic employees amidst rising temperatures.

In Barberton, when temperatures reach more than 90 degrees, cooling centers have been established at the Active Adult Center, 500 W Hopocan Ave., and also Lake Anna YMCA on Wednesday when the Active Adult Center is closed. On Thursday, June 20, the Active Adult Center will be open as a cooling center 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Updated dates and times for the cooling centers will be provided on the City of Barberton’s Facebook page. Also, more cooling centers are listed at www.211summit.org. 

The Ohio Emergency Management Agency is promoting preparedness and resilience when it comes to extreme heat with the #BeatTheHeatOhio summer safety series on Ohio EMA’s social media accounts. In most of the United States, extreme heat is considered two to three days of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees.

Extreme heat often results in the highest annual number of deaths among all weather-related disasters. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, heat-related deaths have been increasing in the United States in recent years with  1,602 occurring in 2021; 1,722 in 2022; and 2,302 in 2023.

Head exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat strokes are urgent health risks that can occur during extreme heat. Heat stroke is a medical emergency that can be fatal, so it is important to act immediately if a person is showing signs of heat stroke. Symptoms can include high body temperature (103°F or higher); hot, red, dry or damp skin; fast, strong pulse; headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion or losing consciousness.

If a person exhibits any of these signs, move them to a cooler place and call 911.  Use cool rags, cold packs, encourage the person to drink water, and fan the individual while waiting for first responders. 

Older adults, infants and children, people with chronic conditions, people without air conditioning, outdoor workers, and emergency responders are considered high-risk populations and should exercise caution in the extreme heat.

What can you do?

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Remember to avoid alcohol or liquids containing large amounts of sugar or caffeine.
• Stay informed. Know when there is a heat advisory and check the weather before heading out for the day. Heat alerts can be found on the National Weather Service website.
• Check on neighbors who may be at high risk and ask if they need assistance.
• During the heat of summer, outside workers should take extra precautions by staying hydrated, taking frequent rest breaks, and dressing for the heat. 
• Dress for the weather in loose fitting clothing. Take advantage of community pools and cooling centers.

Ensure your pets and livestock are safe from overheating. A few tips are:

• Always make sure your pets have fresh water and shaded shelter. As the sun moves, the shade moves with it, so pay attention to their needs.
• Pets and livestock should have access to fresh cool water.
• Pets can get heat stroke, too. Symptoms include excessive thirst, heavy panting, vomiting, restlessness, lethargy, fever, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and profuse drooling. It is recommended they be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
• Never leave a pet in an unattended vehicle.

Be prepared and stay informed this summer to safely enjoy all Ohio has to offer. For more information on extreme weather visit www.ready.gov and follow on social media.