Extreme heat does not arrive with the sudden impact of an earthquake or storm, but it is the deadliest weather hazard in the United States. In Los Angeles County, the hottest stretch of the year often arrives just as summer seems to be winding down, with August and September recording the most extreme heat days.
When a heat wave hits, the City of Paramount may open a cooling center at the Paramount Park Community Center (14400 Paramount Blvd.), a free, air-conditioned space where residents can rest and cool down. Activations are announced through the City’s Nixle alert system, which you can join by texting “90723” to 888777, as well as on its Facebook and Instagram pages.
Los Angeles County also opens cooling centers countywide when the temperature hits 95 degrees or higher for two or more consecutive days. Residents can find the nearest location at Ready.LACounty.gov/Heat or by dialing 211. The Paramount Library (16254 Colorado Ave). is also an air-conditioned savior residents can take advantage of during regular business hours.
Can’t make it to a cooling zone? When at home, a few habits can make a real difference:
- Drink before you are thirsty: Sip water steadily throughout the day, and go easy on alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks.
- Close the blinds early: Shade windows before the day heats up, especially those facing west.
- Know a fan’s limits: Fans help you feel cooler, but should not be your main defense once temperatures reach the 90s. Move to an air-conditioned space or take a cool shower instead.
- Check your medications: Some prescriptions, including diuretics and certain antihistamines, can affect how the body regulates temperature. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
Even by taking preventative measures, heat exhaustion can still occur. Heat exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, cool or clammy skin, dizziness or nausea. If you or a loved one is experiencing this, move somewhere cool, sip water and apply cool, wet clothes. If symptoms escalate, it may be heatstroke, so call 911 immediately.
Extreme heat is a serious hazard but can be a manageable one. By staying hydrated, checking on neighbors and knowing where to cool down, residents can look out for one another and keep Paramount safe, healthy and attractive for the rest of the summer.
For more emergency preparedness resources, visit ParamountCity.gov/Emergency-Preparedness or call the Public Safety Department at (562) 220-2002.