Anyone looking for a break from the high heat and humidity this week can pop into the Bel Air branch of the Harford County Public Library, or other HCPL branches, and get some relief.
The Harford County Department of Emergency Services is operating cooling centers in partnership with the county Health Department and the library system at HCPL’s 11 branches throughout Harford.
The Bel Air branch is at 100 E. Pennsylvania Avenue and is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays.
In addition to getting relief from the heat, visitors to the cooling centers can charge their electronic devices, including oxygen concentrators used by people who depend on supplemental oxygen, according to a news release from the county government.
The Bel Air area is under an extreme heat warning Tuesday, as temperatures are expected to hit a high of 99 degrees. The accompanying humidity will push the heat index into the triple digits, creating conditions that feel as hot as 110 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.
Hot weather also is predicted for Wednesday, June 25, so the NWS has issued an extreme heat watch for tomorrow.
The Harford County DES has the following tips to keep yourself and others safe during extreme heat events:
- Stay indoors as much as possible and limit sun exposure.
- If you do not have air conditioning, open windows and use a fan.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity.
- Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle
- Check on elderly neighbors and other vulnerable citizens.
- Keep pets hydrated with access to shelter.
Contact Media and Public Relations Specialist David Anderson at 410-838-7181 or danderson@belairmd.org.