EXTREME HEAT THIS WEEKEND, PROTECT YOURSELF, FAMILY AND PETS

An excessive heat warning has been issued with record to near record high temperatures predicted to range from 111 to 115 here in our Morongo basin through Monday night. Residents are urged to stay cool, and hydrated. To keep cool, stay in air-conditioned buildings and limit outdoor activities, especially midday when it is the hottest. Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and take cool showers to lower your body temperature. Check on family and neighbors at least twice a day. Be sure to drink more water than usual and do not wait until you experience thirst before drinking. Designated cooling centers are the Yucca Valley Community Center today, the Hi-Desert Nature Museum is open Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The City of Twentynine Palms has designated the Senior Center as a cooling center; they will open it over the weekend if temperatures exceed 115 degrees. In Joshua Tree, the Hi-Desert Medical Center cafeteria is a cooling center, as well at the Joshua Tree Community center. There are no designated cooling centers for the Landers area. Opportunities to stay cool include local shopping malls, libraries, movie theaters, and restaurants. County Animal Control asks that residents remember to take care of indoor and outdoor pets by making sure they have plenty of water and a cool, shady place to rest. Never leave a pet unattended in vehicles. Bring pets inside during the hot time of the day and let them rest in a cool part of the house. In extremely hot weather, do not let pets stand on sidewalks or hot asphalt to avoid burning their paws.