Full Notification

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for Wednesday, August 11 through Saturday, August 14. The City of Bainbridge Island Emergency Management Coordinator Anne LeSage is monitoring the forecast and will open a cooling center at the Senior Community Center, located at 370 Brien Drive SE, on Thursday, August 12 and Friday, August 13 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. each day. The City activates its cooling center when there are four or more hours over 90 degrees.

COVID-19 protocols are still in effect at the cooling center. All individuals, regardless of vaccination status, must wear a mask while inside the Senior Community Center.

Individuals who need transportation to the Senior Community Center can request a ride on Kitsap Transit’s BI Ride. Rides may be requested for pickup until 3:50 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. To schedule a ride, please call 1.844.4BI.RIDE.

Individuals who need transportation to the Senior Community Center after 3:50 p.m. may call the Senior Community Center at 206-842-1616 to request a ride. The City is partnering with Island Volunteer Caregivers (IVC) to coordinate transportation to and from the Senior Community Center after 3:50 p.m. both days.

If your neighborhood is part of the City's "Map Your Neighborhood" program, please consider using this as a resource to check on your neighbors who are elderly or have any disabilities, access, or functional needs.

Here are some tips for staying cool, healthy, and safe this weekend and all summer long.

• Use an air conditioner during hot weather and heat emergencies. A setting of 78 degrees F (or low cool) can provide a comfortable environment, help save on electricity bills, and conserve energy.
• Remember: Do NOT visit others for cooling relief during a heat wave if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or tested positive for COVID-19.
• Heat illness occurs when the body cannot cool down. The most serious forms of heat illness are heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Know the signs of heat illness:
  • Hot, dry skin OR cold, clammy skin
  • Confusion, hallucinations, disorientation
  • Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Trouble breathing
  • Rapid, strong pulse
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
• Call 911 or go to the emergency room right away if you or someone you know shows signs or symptoms of heat illness.
• Stay out of the sun and wear sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Symptoms of sunburn include skin redness and pain, possible swelling, and blisters.
• Your pets can feel the heat, too. NEVER leave pets in the car. Temperatures rise quickly even with the windows down and can be fatal. Call 911 if you see a pet in a hot car.
• Headed out? Wear light-colored, loose-fitted clothing.
• Drink fluids – particularly water – even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Avoid strenuous activity, especially during the sun's peak hours – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Wear sunscreen and a proper hat to protect yourself from the sun during extreme heat. The sunscreen should be at least SPF 15 to protect you from harmful rays.
• If you rely on medical equipment, charge your medical and communications devices before a heatwave strikes. If you rely on oxygen, talk to your vendor about emergency replacements.
• Update your emergency supply kit before a heat emergency strikes. Include items that can help protect you and others from COVID-19, including hand sanitizer, and face coverings for each person. Make sure it includes batteries and a working flashlight, in case of a power outage.

Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management is also planning to activate cooling centers at various locations throughout the County. Complete details are available online here: Inclement Weather & Emergency Information (kitsapgov.com)

Additional Information on hot weather safety:
Hot Weather | Kitsap Public Health District | kitsappublichealth.org
Hot Weather Safety :: Washington State Department of Health
Water Safety for Lakes, Rivers, and Beaches :: Washington State Department of Health

Instructions:

see above