County Keeps Senior Centers Open Late for Heat

In response to the National Weather Service Excessive Heat Warning that is currently in effect, the Board of Bucks County Commissioners yesterday extended hours until 6 p.m. at five county senior centers as a respite from the dangerous heat and humidity.

The Area Agency on Aging (AAA) reminds seniors that extreme hot weather can cause serious heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Though everyone should take precautions, seniors are especially vulnerable to effects from the heat.  The best approach during a heat wave is to remain indoors with an air-conditioner or in a ventilated room with a fan. Unless restricted, drink plenty of water and/or non-alcoholic beverages to prevent dehydration.  Minimize time spent outdoors and stay out of the sun whenever possible.

The public is encouraged to check frequently on elderly neighbors, friends and family members. Symptoms of a possible heat injury include faintness, dizziness, nausea, weakness, and heavy sweating. For more information on symptoms and treatment relating to the elderly, visit the CDC Web site http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/elderlyheat.asp.

As with any emergency, call 9-1-1 when necessary. Fans may be available through the AAA for senior residents of Bucks County (age 60+) who do not have a fan or air conditioner. The elderly also may call 215-348-0510 for help during this period of extreme heat.

From July 19-22, the following five (5) senior centers will be open between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.:

Bristol Township 
Senior Center
2501 Bath Rd.
Bristol, PA 19007
Phone:  215-785-6322

Benjamin H. Wilson 
Senior Center
580 Delmont Ave.
Warminster, PA 18974
Phone:  215-672-8380

Morrisville Senior Servicenter
31 E. Cleveland Ave.
Morrisville, PA 19067
215-295-0567

Pennridge Senior Center
146 E. Main St.
Silverdale, PA 18944
Phone:  215-453-7027

Upper Bucks Senior Center
Milford Square Fire Co.
2183 Milford Square Pike
Milford, PA 18951
Phone:  215-536-3066

For more information or assistance, please call:

The Bucks County Area Agency on Aging
30 E. Oakland Ave., Doylestown, Pa. 18901
Phone:  215-348-0510 (M-F, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.)

General information on preventing heat-related injuries also is available through the Bucks County Health Department information pages at:http://www.buckscounty.org/government/departments/HumanServices/HealthDepartment/HeatRela