Heat Warning Alert for Wilmington!
July 17, 2024
**Stay Cool and Safe with City Facilities Open**
An **Excessive Heat Warning** remains in effect for Wilmington and parts of northern Delaware until 8:00 p.m. today, Wednesday, July 17, according to the National Weather Service. With heat index values soaring up to 105°F (40.5°C), it’s crucial to take precautions to stay safe and cool.
**Cooling Stations and Fun Activities Available**
City Parks Director Ian Smith announces that city spray parks and swimming pools are OPEN! Visit the City of Wilmington website for more details and schedules. The William “Hicks” Anderson Community Center at 501 North Madison Street is also open as a cooling center from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Additional cooling centers in Wilmington include:
– **Delaware Resilience Hub Cooling Center at The Resurrection Center** (3301 North Market Street): Open from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and whenever the “feels-like” temperature hits 95°F (35°C). They offer cold water, lunch, snacks, and climate-related resources. For more info, call Stacey Henry at (302) 420-1819.
– **Friendship House Empowerment Center** (720 North Orange Street): Open weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. during July and August. They provide air conditioning, water, and snacks. Contact (302) 652-8133 or their helpline at (302) 482-2271.
– **Temple United Church** (602 Washington Street): Open from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. during the heat wave. They offer air conditioning, water, and snacks. Contact Rev. John Graham at (302) 571-8596 or email tucone333apostle@aol.com.
– **Glory Central Church** (2200 North Market Street): Open from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. during the heat wave. They provide air conditioning, water, and snacks. Contact Rev. Sharee Dorsett at (302) 781-0367 or email cityoflovepa@gmail.com.
– **Delaware State Service Centers** are also available. For a list of centers and locations, visit the (https://dhss.delaware.gov). For additional state resources, contact (https://delaware211.org).
Swimmers enjoy a sunny day at Eden Park pool in Wilmington on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. Photo by certified drone pilot Saquan Stimpson.
**Stay Safe in the Heat**
Follow these tips to stay safe in extreme heat:
– Check on neighbors, especially seniors, families with young children, people with special needs, or those living alone.
– Never leave children, the elderly, or pets in parked cars.
– Stay hydrated with water and fruit juices; avoid alcohol and caffeine.
– Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. Use a wide-brimmed hat if outdoors.
– Avoid strenuous outdoor activities; if necessary, reschedule to cooler parts of the day and take frequent breaks.
– Stay in air-conditioned environments whenever possible. Utilize libraries, shopping malls, and community centers to cool off.
– Be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat stroke. Move anyone affected to a cool, shaded area and call 9-1-1 if needed.
**Note on Electric Fans**
The Mayor’s Office of Constituent Services advises that it is currently out of free electric fans. Residents should not use fans when temperatures exceed 95°F (35°C), as this can increase the risk of heat-related illness by providing a false sense of comfort.
Stay cool, stay safe, and take advantage of the city’s resources during this heat wave!