JAMES CITY COUNTY — With an extended period of hot and humid weather expected Thursday through Saturday, James City County is offering residents and visitors a place to cool off at the James City County Recreation Center during open hours.
The county warns high temperatures in the mid- to-upper 90s combined with high humidity will push heat index values to around 105 degrees Thursday and 105 to 109 degrees Friday and Saturday.
The center serves as the county’s designated cooling center, providing air conditioning and a place to sit down.
The county offers the following safety tips:
- Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
- Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
- To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency — call 911.
The county notes with the exception of service animals, pets are not allowed in the cooling center. For more information, call 757-259-4200, or visit James City County Recreation Center for hours and information.