Daytime high temperatures are expected to be at or above 100 degrees for the next several days, prompting the City of Las Cruces to open cooling stations from Friday, Aug. 16, through Thursday, Aug. 22. These stations aim to provide relief for residents seeking respite from the heat.
Cooling stations offer temporary daytime shelter from the heat for the elderly, high-risk residents, and the public. Residents are encouraged to call these locations beforehand to verify their availability.
The following cooling stations will operate from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays through Aug. 22:
- Frank O’Brien Papen Community Center, 304 W. Bell Ave., (575) 528-2455 (Closed Saturday/Sunday).
- Henry R. Benavidez Community Center,1045 McClure Road, (575) 541-2006 (Closed Saturday/Sunday).
- Meerscheidt Recreation Center, 1600 E. Hadley Ave., (575) 541-2563 (Closed Sunday).
- Munson Center, 975 S. Mesquite St., (575) 541-3000 (Closed Saturday/Sunday).
- Sage Café, 6121 Reynolds Drive, (575) 528-3151 (Closed Saturday/Sunday).
- Thomas Branigan Memorial Library, 200 E. Picacho Ave., (575) 528-4000 (Open Sunday from 1 p.m.-5 p.m.).
Residents are reminded to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned rooms when possible, avoid direct sunlight exposure and check on relatives, neighbors and pets regularly during this period of extreme heat.
Individuals working or spending time outdoors should take extra precautions by limiting strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours whenever possible.
Residents should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke:
Heat exhaustion symptoms include headaches; dizziness; lightheadedness or fainting; weakness and moist skin; irritability or confusion; and an upset stomach.
Heat stroke symptoms include dry hot skin with no sweating; mental confusion or loss of consciousness; seizures or convulsions.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention by calling emergency services at 911 if anyone experiences these symptoms.
People at higher risk for heat-related illnesses include infants and young children; older adults; individuals with disabilities; those with chronic heart or lung conditions; overweight persons; outdoor workers or those in hot environments; users of certain medications including drugs for mental disorders and circulatory problems as well as isolated individuals who may not know how to cool off effectively or seek help when needed.
Wearing lightweight and loose-fitting clothing can help reduce risks during outdoor activities. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments during such times.
Anyone overcome by heat should be moved quickly to a cool shaded location.
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