Farmington opens cooling stations in municipal buildings

The Farmington Fire Station at 222 E. Columbia St. is among six municipal buildings in the city open Thursday and Friday for use as cooling stations. The National Weather Service is predicting heat indices up to 109 degrees on Thursday and Friday.

With high heat indices during the daytime hours predicted for Thursday and Friday, the City of Farmington is encouraging the use of its public buildings as cooling shelters during normal business hours. Water will reportedly be available at these locations.

“The National Weather Service is predicting a higher probability of heat indices up to 109 degrees on Thursday and Friday,” said Farmington Development Services Director Tim Porter.

Farmington municipal locations available as cooling stations include:

• City Hall, 110 W. Columbia St., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
• Development Services, 12 S. Franklin St., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
• Civic Center, 2 Black Knight Drive, 5 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Public Library, 101 N. A St., 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Thursday; and 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday.
• Police Department, 310 Ste. Genevieve Ave., open 24 hours.
• Fire Department, 222 E. Columbia St., open 24 hours.

Porter said that it is important to take the following precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses, injuries, and death during a Heat Advisory:

1. Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as you can. If you don’t have air conditioning at home, consider going to a public place with air conditioning, such as the locations listed above.
2. Drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol as they can dehydrate you.
3. Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and sunscreen. This will help protect your skin from the sun and keep you cool.
4. Pace yourself and avoid strenuous activities. If you must do outdoor activities, perform them during the coolest part of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
5. Schedule outdoor activities carefully. Limit your outdoor activities to when it’s coolest outside.
6. Use a buddy system and monitor those at risk, such as children, the elderly, and people with chronic conditions. Also take care of your pets, especially those who are left outside during the day.

For additional information, contact the City of Farmington at 573-756-1701.