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
- Los Altos Main Library
- Woodland Library
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.