In response to the National Weather Service issuing a Heat Advisory Saturday, Oct. 3 through Wednesday, Oct. 7, the Department of Homeless Services and Housing is activating its cooling respite center in partnership with First Step Communities.
First Step Communities Shelter
1400 North A Street
Open daily from 1-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3 through Wednesday, Oct. 7.
Participants can expect a cool, safe space to get respite from the heat, charge their devices, use the restroom, and receive a meal. Light case management is also available. The surge capacity at North A Street is 35, with space for three pets as well. This location only accepts adult 18+.
Additional cooling centers around the county:
Outreach and Engagement Center
3615 Auburn Blvd.
Opens continuously from Saturday, Oct. 3, at 10 a.m., through Thursday Oct. 8, at 8 a.m.
North 5th Street Navigation Center
700 North Fifth St.
Open daily from 1-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3 through Wednesday, Oct. 7
Regional Transit will provide free rides to all respite centers. Click here for the Free Ride Flyer.
Interested parties should call 2-1-1 before traveling to any respite center to check the capacity. 211sacramento.org also has an interactive map with all the locations available.
The California Department of Public Health has some extreme heat safety tips: Stay cool, stay hydrated, stay connected, stay informed.
Stay Cool (Especially During the Hottest Times of the Day):
- Those without air conditioning should visit a local cooling center or public locations such as a library or shopping mall.
- Avoid physical exertion or exercising outdoors.
- Wear lightweight, light colored, loose clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Stay Hydrated:
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, even when not thirsty; drink low-sugar sports drinks (alternating with water) to help replace electrolytes lost if engaging in vigorous exercise.
- Avoid sugary, alcoholic and energy drinks.
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Stay Connected:
- Check in on those at high risk of heat-related illness.
- Use a buddy system when working in the heat.
Stay Informed:
- Check the local news for weather forecasts, extreme heat alerts, and cooling centers.
- CalHeatScore shows daily rankings of forecasted heat impacts across California ZIP codes.
- Look up the 7-day “HeatRisk” forecast to plan ahead and prepare for heat