Darke County Red Cross Coordinating Cooling Centers

DARKE COUNTY, OHIO June 28, 2012 — Record high temperatures (100 degrees) and heat indexes (105+) are heading for the area today and the Darke County Chapter of the American Red Cross isn’t taking any chances. To help beat the heat local partner agencies, see below, are setting up cooling stations across the Darke County area starting today and Friday, if needed. Cooling centers are available during the day, as a way to escape the heat, not as a feeding or sleeping shelter.

The stations will be open from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm Thursday and Friday at the following locations:

• Greenville Library, 520 Sycamore Street, Greenville
• Worch Library, 790 S Center, Versailles
• New Madison Library, 142 S Main, New Madison
• Arcanum Library, 101 North Street, Arcanum
• Greenville YMCA, 301 Wagner Ave, Greenville
• Versailles YMCA, 10242 Versailles-Southeastern Rd, Versailles
• Shawnee Prairie Nature Center, St Rt 502, Greenville

The American Red Cross reminds everyone that when the temperature rises above 90-degrees, we are all at risk for heat-related illnesses. Symptoms include nausea, dizziness, flushed or pale skin, heavy sweating and headaches. Young children and the elderly are at the highest risk for heat-related illnesses. Also, remember not only your family, but check on elderly neighbors as well. Keep pets inside or in well shaded areas, with ample water supply. The Darke County Association of Fire Chief's, its member departments with the support of the Darke County Sheriff's Office, is issuing an "Open Burning Advisory" for all of Darke County until further notice.

For more information on how to stay safe and cool this summer, visit www.redcross.org