F.I.S.H. designated as cooling station for islands
F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva reported that Southwest Florida experienced the hottest May on record, prompting Lee County, in collaboration with the United Way, to establish cooling stations at various locations to assist those unable to escape the heat.
Serving as the Sanibel United Way House, F.I.S.H. will be the designated station for the islands, at 2422 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. It will provide beverages, cooling towels, electrolyte drinks and snacks.
The county will activate and open the stations from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. when the National Weather Service issues a heat watch or warning, indicating temperatures exceeding 103 degrees or a heat index above 108 degrees.
“According to the CDC, higher temperatures increase the risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration and breathing problems, particularly for those with disabilities and chronic health conditions,” F.I.S.H. Disaster Administrative Director Manuela Martinez said. “We are committed to providing relief to those who need it and will be checking on our senior residents and families with young children to ensure they are staying cool and healthy.”
She noted the National Integrated Heat Health Information System’s findings that the groups most at risk include children, older adults, people experiencing homelessness, people with pre-existing conditions, people with disabilities, indoor and outdoor workers, emergency responders, low-income communities, pregnant people, athletes and more.
“We urge everyone to monitor temperatures and stay indoors in air-conditioned environments when it’s particularly hot,” Martinez said. “Stay hydrated, especially when outdoors, and avoid being outside during the peak heat of the day, usually late afternoon.”
F.I.S.H. reminded the community to never leave children, seniors or pets in a parked vehicle, even briefly. If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion, heatstroke or another health emergency, seek medical help immediately.
For updates on the cooling station and additional safety tips, follow F.I.S.H. on social media.
For more information about F.I.S.H., visit https://www.fishofsancap.org/.