[Archived] City of Alexandria Encourages Residents to Stay Cool

City Press Release


	For Immediate Release	For More Information, Contact
	July 26, 2005 PIO# 241-05/sjm	Steven J. Mason, Public Information Officer, or Raynard Owens, Communications Officer, at 703.838.4300 Raynard Owens, Communications Officer, at 703.838.4300

City of Alexandria Encourages Residents to Stay Cool

Due to the National Weather Service’s issuance of heat advisories, the City of Alexandria encourages residents and visitors to use caution during the extreme heat. Children, the elderly, and people with chronic ailments are usually the first to suffer from the heat. Heat exhaustion, cramps, or in extreme cases, heat stroke can result from prolonged exposure to these conditions. During extended heat waves people are advised to stay indoors and limit exposure to the sun; drink plenty of water; wear loose, lightweight and light colored clothing; and check on neighbors that may be at risk or do not have access to air conditioning.

Some of the locations in the City that are used as cooling centers include: all recreation centers, Alexandria City libraries, and Landmark Mall. For locations and hours of operation for the City’s recreation centers, visit the City’s web site, www.alexandriava.gov, or call 703.838.4343. All Alexandria libraries are open until 9 pm. There are two senior centers open to anyone over 60 years of age for daytime activities. The senior centers are the Charles Houston Senior Center, 905 Wythe St., 703.838.4832, and the Saint Martin de Porres Senior Center, 4650 Taney Ave., 703.751.2766.

David's Place, a day shelter for homeless people, is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm. It is operated by and located at Carpenter's Shelter, 930 N. Henry St., and is open to anyone who needs
shelter from the heat. For details, call 703.548.7500.

Through Aug. 15, Virginia’s Cooling Assistance Program offers eligible, low-income households without air conditioning the opportunity to obtain a window unit. For more information on available services, contact the Alexandria Department of Human Services’ Office of Community Service at 703.838.0091 or 703.838.0971. The Department of Human Services’ Office of Aging and Adult Services also coordinates the Fan Care Program for Seniors. Under this program, City residents over age 60 meeting certain income requirements may qualify for free electric fans donated by Dominion Virginia Power. For more information, call 703.838.0925

For more information on remaining healthy in the heat, call the Alexandria Health Department, 703.838.4872, or the Alexandria Chapter of the Red Cross, 703.549.8300.

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