Heat & Wildfire Safety

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West Linn Cooling Centers

The West Linn Library and Adult Community Center operate as a cooling center for the area during their regular business hours (hours may be extended during extreme weather events). There are also several other cooling centers in Clackamas County. We encourage residents who do not have a cool place to be during the hottest time of the day to visit a cooling center to cool off, make new friends, relax and avoid the hot temperatures.

If you or someone you know is in need of transportation assistance to get to a cooling center or other social service assistance, please call 211.

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Protect Yourself from the Heat

If you plan to be outdoors, please take precautions to protect yourself from the sun and heat.

Avoid the sun and strenuous activity, especially during the sun’s peak hours from 10:00am-4:00pm
If possible, go to an air conditioned building for several hours during the hottest parts of the day. Participate in activities that will keep you cool, such as visiting one of our splash pads or swimming at a pool, river* or beach*.
*Unlike the calm waters of a pool, open water can have dangers such as cold temperature, currents, changes in depth, weeds/grass, or jagged rocks. Wearing a life jacket is a simple way to stay safe while near water and in the water.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and light colored lightweight, loose-fitting clothes.
Set your air conditioner between 75 to 80 degrees. If you don’t have air conditioning, take a cool shower twice a day and visit a public air conditioned facility.
Drink plenty of fluids, even if you are not thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. Those on fluid-restricted diets or taking diuretics should first consult their physician.
Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 if you need to be in the sun.
Stay in shade whenever working outdoors.
Check on older adults or persons with disabilities in your community who may need help coping with the heat.
Be sure your pets have plenty of water and shade.
Never leave kids or pets in a car unattended. Temperatures can quickly reach well over 100 degrees within minutes.

Symptoms of dehydration and heat cramps include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, headaches, rapid heartbeat, muscle cramps and increased thirst. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention or call 911.

More tips on managing and preparing for extreme heat from PGE

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Take Steps Now to Prepare for Wildfires, Power Outages and Emergencies

Sign up for Public Alerts to receive emergency notifications about wildfires, including evacuation notices, and other emergencies.

Take steps NOW to protect yourself, family, household members, pets, livestock and other animals. Don't wait until the power is out!!