Hot temperatures with highs in the 90s and added humidity are expected this weekend and into next week in Washington County. During these hot summer conditions people are reminded to find safe ways to keep cool. Washington County Public Health Administrator Danielle Pettit-Majewski says it’s a good idea to have a buddy system and to check on neighbors, “Checking on our elderly neighbors, you know, making sure that they have access to air conditioning, making sure that they’re okay. Another issue that we see is people with lower incomes maybe they don’t have air conditioning. Thinking about some of the resources in our community: cooling shelters, the library, you know, where can you go during the day to be in the shade. Don’t be counting on just a fan in your house to keep you cool. That air movement might feel good, but it’s not going to be enough to regulate your body temperature to keep you safe.”

Washington County Emergency Management Coordinator Marissa Reisen says some good places to keep cool are public libraries, area churches, and CHOICES in Washington is open during normal business hours. Pettit-Majewski says the peak time for heat is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Another option to get out of the heat between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. is the free summer lunch program for anyone under the age of 18 with the Washington School District. It is at Lincoln Elementary through Friday and starts at Stewart Elementary on Monday. It is no cost for kids, and a low fee for adults.