The City is preparing for local climate change impacts, including higher temperatures and more frequent and intense wildfires in the region. We have partnered with community organizations to provide safe environments for people during times of extreme heat or poor air quality due to wildfire smoke. Prolonged exposure to heat or smoke can be harmful or life-threating, especially for those with health issues.
Programs
Home-based support
The City of Bellingham is partnering with local organizations to provide free fans and air filters to people with mobility limitations who are vulnerable to the negative health effects of extreme heat and poor air quality due to wildfire smoke.
To participate
- Call or email the City of Bellingham at climate@cob.org or 360-778-7965 to request a fan and air filter.
- City staff members will deliver the fan and filter to your home and set it up for you. They can also provide tips on how to keep your home cool and reduce your smoke exposure.
Cooling Centers
When Bellingham is under a Heat Watch alert and the National Weather Service HeatRisk category for the area is red (Major risk), the following facilities will be alerted:
- Bellingham Library – Bellis Fair Branch, 1 Bellis Fair Pkwy #616
Monday: closed
Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Wednesday to Friday: 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m to 5 p.m. - Bellis Fair Mall
Open daily, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. - Port of Bellingham Ferry Terminal, 355 Harris Ave.
Open daily, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. - Sportsplex, 1225 Civic Field Way
Call 360-676-1919 for hours the facility is available to the public - Christ The King Church, 4173 Meridian St.
Open daily (except Sunday), 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. during extreme heat
Call 360-733-1337 for information
How to protect yourself from extreme heat
Prolonged exposure to temperatures of 80°F (27°C) and above can impact the health of individuals, especially children, older adults, and those with health issues. Heat-related illnesses can include heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Below are a few of the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) heat safety tips:
- Avoid direct sun exposure
- Limit outdoor activities to early morning or late evening
- Drink plenty of water and clear liquids
- Take a cool bath or shower
- Find shade if you are outside
- Wear sunscreen
- Spend time in air-conditioned spaces
- If your residence doesn’t have air conditioning, then consider visiting public spaces that do:
- Visit a community center, such as a library
- Walk or shop at a mall
- Go to a movie
- Access a cool space at a building or visit a Cooling Center location
- If your residence doesn’t have air conditioning, then consider visiting public spaces that do:
- Stay informed on weather conditions
How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke
Wildfire smoke contains very small particles that can end up deep in the lungs. Extended exposure to wildfire smoke can cause throat irritation, coughing, difficulty breathing, asthma attacks, and chest pain. People with respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable. Below are a few of the CDC’s tips to stay safe during wildfires and poor air quality:
- Limit time outdoors
- Avoid outdoor exercise
- When indoors, keep windows closed as much as possible
- Wear a respirator, as advised by your doctor
- Check on at-risk loved ones or neighbors
- Visit one of the buildings listed as a Cooling Center
- Track outdoor air quality on AirNow
- Check the Washington Smoke Blog to find updates on air quality
Resources
Contact
Phone: (360) 778-7965
Email: cfogelsong@cob.org
