Stay Safe During the Heatwave: Cooling Centers & Safety Tips

Extremely hot weather can result in heatstroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, sunburn, heat rash, and in some instances death. Please take safety measures to stay safe and lend a helping hand to family, friends, and neighbors.

Cooling Centers in Los Altos

• Los Altos Community Center
  • Weekdays | 8 AM–5 PM
  • Saturday | 9 AM–4PM
• Los Altos Main Library
  • Thursday | 10 AM–9 PM
  • Friday-Saturday | 10 AM–7 PM
• Woodland Library 
  • Thursday-Saturday | 11 AM–5 PM

For a full list of cooling centers in Santa Clara County, please visit the County's website. 

Hot Weather Safety Tips

• Drink plenty of water: Drink water even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine or lots of sugar because they will speed up fluid loss.
• Limit physical activity: Avoid physical activity during the hottest time of the day—10 AM–3 PM.
• Never leave people or pets in a closed, parked car.
• Stay in air-conditioned areas, whenever possible.
• Cool off by taking a bath or shower: Cool, plain water baths or moist towels work best. Do not cool children in alcohol baths.
• Wear cool clothing: Lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing can help you keep cool. Cotton clothes are good because they let sweat evaporate.
• Do not bundle babies: Babies do not handle heat well because their sweat glands are not fully developed. Do not put them in blankets or heavy clothing.
• Cover your head: Wear a wide-brimmed, vented hat or use an umbrella when outdoors because your head absorbs heat easily.
• Wear sunglasses and sunscreen: Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher when outdoors.
• Rest often in shady areas: Find shady places to cool down when outdoors.
• Check on frail or elderly family, friends, or neighbors often.