COOLING SHELTER: County Opens Overnight Shelter

The sweltering temperatures forced the Polk County Health Department to re-open an overnight cooling shelter Sunday.

With temperatures staying in the 100’s this week and no relief in sight, the county will open the shelter again Monday, and Tuesday.

Health Department officials want to remind people to stay out of the heat as much as possible.  Getting into the air conditioning for just a couple hours when you don’t have it at home can greatly reduce your risk for getting sick from the heat. Everyone is urged to drink plenty of water even if you don’t feel thirsty.

The center is located at 1548 Hull Avenue in Des Moines; it will open at 8 p.m. and remain open until 8 a.m.