Extreme Heat Safety & Weather Respite Activations

Published on July 08, 2025
Emergency Preparedness

Due to the incoming forecast of hot weather, the Department of Homeless Services and Housing, in partnership with First Step Communities, is activating its weather respite on Thursday, July 10 and Friday, July 11 at the Warren E Thorton Youth Center (WETYC).

Anyone interested in using a respite center should call 2-1-1 to check capacity before traveling to the center.

Regional Transit is supporting this weather activation with free rides to and from the respite centers. Access the flyer here

Warren E Thorton Youth Center (WETYC) 4000 Branch Center Rd, Sac 95827

  • Open Thursday, July 10 and Friday, July 11 from 1 – 8 p.m. each day
  • Pets are welcome (one per person, two per couple); must be crated at all times
  • Crates/leashes and dog/cat food are provided.
  • Guests will receive snacks and a warm dinner
  • Guests must be 18 or older
  • Phone/Device charging available
  • Showers and restrooms available
  • Light case management

Furthermore, Sacramento County Public Health (SCPH) is urging residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related illness. High heat can pose serious health risks, especially for older adults, children, people with chronic conditions, outdoor workers and those without access to air conditioning.

Keeping Yourself Safe in Extreme Heat:

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can increase dehydration.
  • Wear loose, lightweight clothing to stay cool.
  • Limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
  • Seek shade or air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.
  • Cover windows with drapes or shades to keep indoor temperatures down.
  • Keep pets indoors and provide them with plenty of water.
  • Locate nearby cooling centers for relief when home cooling is not available.
  • Check on family members and neighbors who are vulnerable.
  • Watch for symptoms of heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Keeping Pets Safe in Extreme Heat:

  • Avoid outdoor playtime during the hottest parts of the day.
  •  Early mornings or evenings are the safest times for walks and exercise.
  • Never leave pets in parked cars, even for a quick errand. Cars gets dangerously hot fast.
  • Watch for signs of heat stress like heavy panting, drooling, weakness or wobbling. If you notice any of these, contact your vet right away.

Extreme heat can turn dangerous quickly but with a few simple steps, you can protect yourself, your loved ones and your pets. Pay attention to the signs of heat-related illness, take breaks to cool down and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if symptoms appear.

Summer should be enjoyed, not endured. Stay cool, stay alert and look out for one another.

For more information and resources, visit the CDPH Center for Preparedness: Extreme Heat or call the SCPH Emergency Preparedness Unit at (916) 875-5881.

Contact Information

Dial 2-1-1

or email info@211Sacramento.org to contact a 211 Representative