Where to Cool Off
- Public libraries, grocery stores, and other indoor shopping locations are air conditioned.
- During some extreme weather events, CET does not collect any fares (outside of recreation shuttles). Please check their website for more information.
- Health departments assess heat risk and duration of heat waves to determine when to open cooling centers. You can call 211 or check our Facebook page during heat waves to determine whether cooling centers are open. County Health Departments can also provide further information:
- Crook County Health Department:
- Website: co.crook.or.us/health
- Phone: 541-447-5165
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrookCountyHealthDepartment
- Deschutes County Health Department:
- Website: https://www.deschutes.org/health/page/prevent-heat-related-illness
- Environmental Health phone line: 541-317-3114
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deschuteshealth
- Health Alert Network Sign-up: https://www.deschutes.org/health/page/health-alert-network-sign-page
- Jefferson County Health Department:
- Website: https://www.jeffco.net/publichealth
- Phone: 541-475-4456
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JeffersonCountyOrPublicHealth
- Crook County Health Department:
Tips for Staying Cool
- Never wait in a parked vehicle or leave a child, elder, or pet waiting in a parked car. Temperatures inside parked vehicles can rise dangerously high, even with the windows open.
- Slow down. Reduce or reschedule strenuous activities until the heat of the day has passed.
- Stay out of the sun. Sunburn interferes with the skin’s ability to cool.
- Dress for the weather. Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight.
- Drink plenty of water and non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids. People with health conditions such as epilepsy, heart, or kidney disease should talk to a doctor before increasing their consumption.
- Find the cool places. Visit a family member or neighbor with air conditioning, or go to the nearest public library or other cooled space.
- Take a cool bath, shower or sponge bath. Cool water can help cool an overheated body.
- Pay attention to older adults and people with disabilities or health conditions. Check on those who are at-risk at least twice a day.
Air Conditioners for Individuals on Medicaid
Oregon Health Authority can provide air conditioners to qualified Medicaid individuals who are most vulnerable. For questions about eligibility, contact your care team, visit careoregon.org, or call the Oregon Health Plan office at 800-273-0557 (TTY 711).
Signs of Heat Related Illnesses
More Information
For more information about heat-related illness, visit:
