With heat indexes expected to reach at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit May 7-9, the city of San Antonio will open cooling centers to provide residents relief from the heat.

The city of San Antonio will open 16 cooling centers, all of which are libraries, on May 7 and 8 during normal business hours. The city will also operate 25 cooling centers on May 9, including the libraries and nine senior centers, during normal business hours. Residents may visit www.saoemprepare.com/BeInformed/NaturalDisasters/Heat/BeatTheHeat#243493068-staying-cool for details on public cooling centers.

According to a city news release, adults age 65 and older; children age 4 and younger; people with existing medical conditions, such as heart disease; and those without access to air conditioning, are at higher risk on days with high temperatures and heat indexes.

Drinking plenty of water and protecting oneself from the sun are critical precautions, the release said. Additionally, people should call and check on their neighbors who may be at high risk and ensure access to heat relief and hydration.

City officials said heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are possible health effects. Warning signs of heat stroke include red, hot, and moist or dry skin; no sweating; a strong rapid pulse or a slow weak pulse; nausea; confusion; or acting strangely. If a child exhibits any of these signs, cool the child rapidly with cool water, and call 911 or a local emergency number immediately.

The release also reminds residents that if a child or pet is left alone in a locked car or in the back of a truck, witnesses may note the vehicle’s description, including the license plate number, and call 911. If the situation involves an animal, call Animal Care Services at 311. Per city ordinance, both police and animal care officers have the right to break a car’s window if a child or animal is endangered inside a vehicle, the release said.

The city issued the following tips to help outdoor pets beat the heat.

• Access to fresh water and shaded shelter is required by law. Chain tethers are not allowed.


• Pets most at risk from overheating include young, elderly or overweight pets; those with a short muzzle; or those with thick or dark-colored coats.


• Symptoms of heat stress include excessive thirst, heavy panting, glazed eyes, vomiting, restlessness, lethargy, fever, dizziness, a rapid heartbeat, profuse drooling or salivating, and unconsciousness.


• If an animal does show signs of heat stress, gradually lower their body temperature and get them to a vet immediately.


• Mind your pets around water. Most pets are not natural swimmers, and any pet can easily tire and drown.

In the same city news release, the Bexar County fire marshal reminded residents the county is still under a burn ban, and outdoor burning is not recommended at all. County officials said with dry winds forecast through the weekend, a simple spark may ignite a grassfire. Additionally, county officials urged farmers and ranchers to keep livestock safe in extreme temperatures. Visit www.bexar.org for details.

According to the city release, CPS Energy is closely monitoring the expected high-power demand due to the extreme hot weather predicted for this weekend. Officials with th Electric Reliability Council of Texas said May 5 there is enough power to meet the projected high demand. CPS Energy officials said their power plants are prepared to serve community needs.

CPS Energy reminded customers they can save energy and money on their utility bills by following tips available at www.cpsenergy.com/content/corporate/en/my-home/savenow/energy-saving--tips.html. Additionally, customers may stay informed by signing up for energy alerts at www.cpsenergy.com/content/corporate/en/customer-support/outage-center/energy-alerts.html or calling 210-353-2222.

The release said Stage 2 outdoor watering rules are still in place for San Antonio Water System customers. Watering outdoors during the week is allowed only between 7-11 a.m. and 7-11 p.m. on your designated day, SAWS said. Watering with a handheld hose is still allowed any time on any day. More information is available at www.saws.org/stage2.

VIA Metropolitan Transit is offering free trips to and from cooling centers as long as they remain open. Visit www.viainfo.net or call 210-362-2020 for details.