Safety Tips to Beat the Summer Heat

Published on July 15, 2025

As temperatures surge, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and others from the dangers of extreme heat. Use these safety tips from the Oregon Department of Emergency Management to stay safe and cool this summer.

Safety tips

• Stay informed and listen for updates from the National Weather Service.
• Never leave children or pets alone in vehicles. The temperature inside can reach a dangerous level within a few minutes.
• Drink more water than usual–even if you’re not thirsty.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.
• Avoid working outdoors; if you must do so, take frequent breaks and use the buddy system.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone, or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
• If possible, bring animals inside. If not, frequently check to ensure they are comfortable and have water and a shady place to rest.

Additional tips from the Oregon Health Authority:

• Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible.
• Use sunscreen with SPF 15+ when going outside.
• Take a cool shower or bath. 
• Stay hydrated, but avoid alcohol and liquids with large amounts of sugar. 
• Avoid hot foods and heavy meals.
• Stay informed and learn how to prevent, recognize, and treat heat-related illness. 

Splash pads

If you're looking for a place to cool off, the City's splash pads are open at the following locations:

• Fichtner-Mainwaring (334 Holmes Avenue)
• Hawthorne (501 East Main Street)
• Howard School Park (286 Mace Rd.)
• Lewis (130 Lewis Avenue)
• Lone Pine (3158 Lone Pine Road)
• Oregon Hills (6001 East McAndrews Road)
• RogueX *with paid admission (901 Rossanley Dr.)

Splash pads are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Remember to stay cool and safe: bring water, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade. 

For more information on warning signs and symptoms of heat-related illness, click here.