Beat the Heat at San Diego County Cool Zones

That breeze you felt Wednesday was the opening of more than 100 "Cool Zones" across San Diego County to help residents, especially the elderly, stay safe during the summer heat.

Cool Zones are designated air conditioned facilities where those most vulnerable to heat-related health issues—seniors and the disabled—and others can come to find a haven from the heat. There are dozens of Cool Zones around San Diego County (see attached PDF); A blue and white polar bear Cool Zone logo helps point residents to the designated areas.

Certain low-income homebound seniors and disabled residents also can call County Aging & Independence Service, which helps coordinate the Cool Zones, to request a free electric fan at 800-510-2020.

Local paramedics and firefighters warn that they often respond to emergency calls during the summer from seniors who are taking medications, such as diuretics, that make them more prone to dehydration. They advise residents to check with their doctors to see if the heat should prompt changes in how and when they take their medication.

The county also offers the following tips for staying cool during the summer, even when you're not at a Cool Zone:

• Stay indoors as much as possible. If air conditioning is not being used, stay on the lowest floor. Keep shades down and blinds closed, but windows slightly open.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's heat.
• Never leave children or pets inside vehicles at any time, even with the windows cracked. Temperatures inside a vehicle can reach lethal levels no matter what the weather is like.
• Drink more fluids than usual even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• Call your physician if you feel you may be experiencing a heat-related illness.