City of Columbia opens cooling centers

Amid the scorching hot temperatures in Mid-Missouri, the City of Columbia has opened their cooling centers.

As the temperatures continue to rise this week, so do the chances of dehydration and heat stroke. According to the University of Missouri Healthcare system, dehydration can be caused by not drinking enough fluids. Health experts recommend drinking more water than you think you need in order to be sure you’re getting enough.

For infants and young kids, they also suggest pedialyte to make sure the kids are getting the electrolytes they lose during the heat.

Heat stroke is another thing to be wary of as the mercury continues to rise. As you’re out gardening or enjoying the sunshine outside, light-weight and loose fitting clothes can help keep you cooler. Hats, sunglasses and an umbrella also help keep you cooler.

The city’s warming and cooling centers are available to the general public during the building’s normal business hours. The public is allowed access to public areas, such as lobbies, restrooms, drinking fountains, etc. Official Shelters provide sleeping accommodations and may or may not include meals

A list of the cooling centers can be found here.