With temperatures projected to be in the 90s this weekend, the Mountlake Terrace Senior Center wants the community to know that it will be a place for people to cool down.

The center will be open daily, including Saturday and Sunday, if the temperature exceeds 90 degrees.

The following are some tips to deal with the anticipated hot weather:

• Drink Plenty of Liquids – Dehydration is the root of many heat related health problems. Drink plenty of water or juice, even if you’re not thirsty. But remember to avoid alcoholic or caffeinated drinks, as they can actually contribute to dehydration.
• Wear Appropriate Clothes – An old Swedish saying says, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes.” When it’s hot out, wear light-colored, lightweight, loose-fitting clothes and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Stay Indoors During Mid-day Hours – During periods of extreme heat, the best time to run errands or be outdoors is before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m., when the temperature tends to be cooler.
• Take it Easy – Avoid exercise and strenuous activity, particularly outdoors, when it’s very hot out.
• Watch the Heat Index – When there’s a lot of moisture in their air (high humidity), the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating is impaired. The heat index factors humidity and temperature to approximate how the how the weather really feels. The current heat index can be found on all popular weather websites, and is also usually announced on local TV and radio weather reports during periods of warm weather.
• Seek Air-conditioned Environments – Seniors whose houses aren’t air-conditioned should consider finding an air-conditioned place to spend time during extreme heat. The mall, library or movie theater are all popular options. During heat waves, many cities also set up “cooling centers,” air-conditioned public places, for seniors and other vulnerable populations. Seniors without convenient access to any air-conditioned place might consider a cool bath or shower.
• Know the Warning Signs of Heat-related Illness – Dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, fainting and breathing problems are all warning signs that help should be sought immediately.

The Mountlake Terrace Senior Center is located at 23000 Lakeview Drive, Mountlake Terrace. For more information see: https://www.mltseniorcenter.net/ or call 425-672-2407.