City officials issue heat safety awareness guidance as extreme temperatures prompt residents to use cooling centers and follow safety precautions

Hollywood, Florida – As extreme heat continues to build across the region, the City of Hollywood is stepping up efforts to help residents stay safe, offering access to air-conditioned spaces and clear guidance on how to recognize and respond to heat-related illness.

City officials say the peak of heat season is now underway, and with temperatures expected to remain high, cooling options are available across several community locations. When a Heat Warning is issued, residents are encouraged to take advantage of designated Community Cooling Centers, which provide indoor relief from dangerous outdoor conditions.

These centers are open throughout the week at different times depending on the location. The Armory Community Center Lobby at 906 N. Dixie Highway operates Monday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. through August. The Boulevard Heights Community Center Lobby at 6770 Garfield Street is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering extended daytime access for residents seeking relief.

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Another option is the Fred Lippman Multi-Purpose Center Lobby at 2030 Polk Street, which runs Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. In addition, residents can also visit the Broward County Library – Hollywood Branch at City Hall Circle, located at 2600 Hollywood Blvd., which remains open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

City officials are reminding residents to come prepared when visiting cooling centers. People are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles and light snacks to help stay hydrated and maintain energy during prolonged heat exposure.

Along with providing cooling spaces, the city is also focusing on education—especially helping residents recognize early signs of heat-related illness before conditions become severe.

Heat exhaustion is often the first warning stage. Symptoms can include dizziness or fainting, excessive sweating, cool and clammy skin, nausea or vomiting, and a rapid but weak pulse. Officials say these signs should never be ignored, especially during prolonged outdoor activity.

More serious is heat stroke, which can become life-threatening if not treated quickly. Symptoms include a throbbing headache or confusion, a body temperature above 103°F, red and hot dry skin, little or no sweating, nausea or vomiting, and a rapid, strong pulse. City officials stress that emergency action is critical.

“Call 911 immediately if someone is showing signs of heat stroke.” Authorities emphasize that fast response can make the difference between recovery and severe medical complications.

Beyond recognizing symptoms, officials are urging residents to take simple but effective steps to reduce risk during high temperatures. Staying hydrated is at the top of the list, along with avoiding alcohol, which can increase dehydration. Limiting outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day is also strongly recommended.

Residents are encouraged to wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and hats when outside, and to seek shade whenever possible. Special attention is also being given to vulnerable groups, including elderly neighbors, family members, and friends who may be more sensitive to extreme heat.

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Pet safety is another concern during the summer months. Officials advise ensuring that outdoor pets have access to water and shaded shelter at all times. At the same time, residents are reminded of a critical safety warning: never leave children or pets unattended in a parked vehicle, even for a short period.

The city is also encouraging community awareness, asking residents to check on one another during heat waves and make sure no one is left without support or access to cooling options.

To keep the public informed throughout the summer, the City of Hollywood is urging residents to follow its official social media accounts, where updates, alerts, and heat safety reminders will be shared regularly.

As temperatures continue to rise, officials say preparation, awareness, and community support remain the strongest tools for preventing heat-related emergencies and keeping residents safe.