Cooling stations open in Wake, Durham, and Cumberland counties as heat index soars above 100 degrees

WAKE COUNTY, N.C. (WTVD) -- Days of dangerous heat are expected this week in central North Carolina. Because of that, cooling stations are opening in multiple counties including Wake, Durham, and Cumberland counties.

Here's a list of places to take a break from the sweltering heat:

• Wake County Public Libraries locations, calling ahead or checking online to see their hours is recommended

Regional Centers and Health and Human Services Centers

• Raleigh: Wake County Health & Human Services, 220 Swinburne St.

• Raleigh: Wake County Health & Human Services Center at Departure, 5809 Departure Drive

• Zebulon: Eastern Regional Center, 1002 Dogwood Drive

• Wake Forest: Northern Regional Center, 350 E. Holding Ave.

• Fuquay-Varina: Southern Regional Center, 130 N Judd Parkway NE

Places, such as EMS stations, fire stations and county fleet maintenance buildings, will not be available as cooling stations.

Durham County

The Durham Rescue Mission is also opening its doors to keep people cool.

The shelter launched Operation Rescue: Cool Shelter today.

The mission deploys two crews to search for anyone in the community who is vulnerable to the heat.

The team will have water and refreshments and spread the word that relief is available at the shelter.

Cumberland County

Cumberland County and the City of Fayetteville are designating multiple government buildings as cooling centers.

They will be open during normal business hours. Residents are encouraged to monitor the County's website for the most current information.

Cooling Center Locations:

- Cumberland County Department of Social Services - Auxiliary Lobby: 1225 Ramsey St. Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Masks or face coverings are encouraged for individuals with preexisting conditions.

-Cumberland County Department of Public Health - First Floor Lobby: 1235 Ramsey St. Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Masks are required in designated areas and immediately after COVID-19 exposure or infection. Those with health concerns are encouraged to wear a mask.

- Cumberland County Public Libraries: All eight library locations across the county. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday (select locations): 2 - 6 p.m.

- Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks & Recreation - Recreation Center Lobbies: Various locations throughout the county. Operating hours vary by facility

- Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) - Main Lobby: 505 Franklin St., Fayetteville. Open during regular operating hours

Heat Safety Tips

• Make sure to drink plenty of water and fluids
• Stay out of sun as much as possible
• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible
• Find air-conditioned space and limit sun exposure
• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day

• Avoiding hot and heavy meals can also reduce your body's overall temperature.

• Cut down on exercise during heat waves and rest often and in shady areas.

• Try to limit your time outside to when it is cooler, like in the early morning and evening.

Monitor high-risk loved ones

Anyone can suffer from heat-related illness at any time, but these people are at greater risk:

• Babies and young children

• Overweight people

• People who overexert during work or exercise

• Those who suffer from heart disease or high blood pressure and those who take certain medications, including for depression, insomnia or poor circulation

Symptoms of heat stroke

• Body temperature of 103 degrees or higher

• Hot, red, dry or damp skin

• Fast, strong pulse

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Confusion

• Passing out

• No longer sweating

Symptoms of heat exhaustion

• Heavy sweating

• Cold, pale, clammy skin

• Fast, weak pulse

• Nausea or vomiting

• Muscle cramps

• Feeling tired or weak

• Headache

• Passing out

Wear sunscreen

• Take precautions to prevent sunburn, which can make you dehydrated and affect your ability to cool down.

• Use sunscreen that's SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes before going outside. Sunscreens that say "broad spectrum" or "UVA/UVB protection" are best

Remember your furry friends

Here are some tips from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for how to keep your pets safe in the heat.

• Provide plenty of fresh water so they don't get dehydrated

• Don't over-exercise pets

• Never leave pets alone in a parked car

• Watch for symptoms of overheating, which include excessive panting, difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate and drooling.

• Animals with flat faces, like pugs, can't pant as well and are more at risk of heat stroke. These pets, as well as older and overweight pets, should be kept inside as much as possible.