Recognizing National UV Safety Awareness Month
July is National UV Safety Awareness Month, a reminder of how important it is to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. For individuals who spend much of their day outdoors, it’s especially important to take steps to stay cool, hydrated, and out of direct sunlight whenever possible.
Heart, Love & Soul serves as a cooling center to provide relief from the heat, offering a place to cool down, access water, and rest indoors during dangerous weather conditions.
Tips for Staying Cool When You’re Outside
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Find Shade: Trees, building overhangs, and shaded areas can help protect against sun exposure.
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Dress Smart: Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a head covering like a hat or scarf can reduce sun exposure.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink small amounts of water often. Dehydration can happen quickly in the heat.
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Rest When Possible: Avoid exertion during peak sun hours between 11 AM – 4 PM.
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Cool Down: Use a wet cloth on your neck, wrists, or face to help lower your body temperature.
Signs of Heat Illness: What to Watch For
Common Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion:
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Dizziness
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Nausea
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Heavy sweating
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Weakness
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Headache
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Muscle cramps
Warning Signs of Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency):
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Confusion
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Rapid heartbeat
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Skin hot and dry (or no longer sweating)
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Fainting
If you experience these symptoms, seek water, shelter, and medical attention immediately. Cooling centers are available to help.
Cooling Centers and Resources in Niagara Falls
While not all of the locations listed below are official designated cooling centers, they are safe and welcoming spaces where individuals are invited to come inside, cool off, and take a break from the summer heat.
If you or someone you know needs a place to beat the heat, these trusted community organizations are here to help.
Local Safe Spaces to Cool Off:
Heart, Love & Soul
939 Ontario Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY
Niagara Falls Public Library (Main Branch)
1425 Main Street, Niagara Falls, NY
Niagara Gospel Mission
1317 Portage Road, Niagara Falls, NY
Community Missions of Niagara Frontier
1570 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY
Why This Matters
Without regular access to shade, shelter, or water, people experiencing homelessness face serious risks during the summer months. Cooling centers like Heart, Love & Soul exist to protect individuals from these dangers every day.
If you know someone in need, please share this information.
Media Contact Information
Michael Jones
Marketing and Communications Manager
Phone: 716-282-5687 Ext. 111
Email: m.jones@heartloveandsoul.org