Communities rally together to cope with heat wave
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - We’re following up with doctors, emergency services, and the Salvation Army on resources and how you can stay a step ahead of the heat.
They say the two most important things to do this week are to stay hydrated and avoid being outside, especially during the day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
If you need somewhere to go with air conditioning, the Center of Hope’s doors will be open all week. The Salvation Army says they will not turn you away. No one should be stuck outside in the triple digits.
Their staff is working around the clock to provide water and food, keep the center clean, and make sure you have somewhere cool to stay.
And it’s only going to get hotter.
Jason DeHart, Augusta Fire Department, EMA said: “The reality is that this is going to be a message throughout this week.”
The Salvation Army says things are calm inside right now, but they’re ready for an influx if people need them.
Some of our most vulnerable populations to heat-related illnesses, the elderly, young children, and pregnant women will need the Center of Hope the most.
Janis Coffin, professor in department of family medicine, AU said: “Be very wary about what’s going on around us.”
Coffin says to look out for them and yourself.
DeHart said: “Be aware of what your body is telling you.”
Look out for dizziness, confusion, cramping, or cool, clammy skin. Try to wear light-colored and lightweight clothing. Stay indoors or in the shade.
Coffin said: “It is very hot. It is very humid. Make sure you’re checking with your local TV station about the weather.”
the WRDW Weather App on the Google or Apple app stores to stay up to date on the temperatures.
Here is a list of local cooling centers:
| Heating and Cooling Centers | Address | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Carrie J. Mays Center | 1014 11th Ave. Augusta, GA | 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
| Bernie Ward Center | 1941 Lumpkin Rd. Augusta, GA | 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
| Blythe Center | 3129 HWY 88, Blythe, GA | 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
| Henry H. Brigham Center | 2463 Golden Camp Rd. Augusta, GA | 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
| May Park | 622 4th St. Augusta, GA | 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
| McBean Center | 1155 Hephzibah/McBean Rd. Hephzibah, GA | 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
| Sand Hills Center | 2540 Wheeler Rd. Augusta, GA | 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
| W.T. Johnson Center | 1606 Hunter St. Augusta, GA | 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. |
| Warren Road Center | 300 Warren Rd. Augusta, GA | 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
| Diamond Lakes Regional Park | 4335 Windsor Spring Rd. Hephzibah, GA | 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
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