Heat forces Dothan to extend hours at Rose Hill Senior Center | Health

Extreme heat conditions are forcing the Dothan to extends the hours of operation for Rose Hill Senior Center until 6:00 P.M. Thursday, June 2nd.

The heat index is expected to exceed 100 degrees this afternoon, which can pose a danger to those residents without air conditioning.

According to Elston Jones, Dothan Leisure Services Director, "Many seniors throughout our community have inadequate or no air conditioning in their homes, extending our hours will provide a much needed, cool, environment this afternoon."

By extending the hours at Rose Hill until 6:00 P.M. those seniors in need will have a place to escape the heat until it begins to cool down in the evening hours.

Jones adds, "Walton Park, Doug Tew and Westgate Recreation centers are open until 9:00 P.M., Monday through Thursday for those citizens looking to escape the heat."

According to Fire Chief Larry Williams, "Environmental conditions such as we are experiencing today have the greatest impact, physically, on the older citizens of our community."

"The hours of operation for our senior center will be evaluated daily, based on current conditions and forecasts, and additional releases will be sent should the City extend hours on upcoming days," says City Manager Mike West.

In addition, The Dothan / Houston County Emergency Management Agency is working with The Columbia Baptist Association to identify potential cooling stations in the County, should the need arise. Houston County Commission Chairman Mark Culver, encourages citizens of Houston County that need a place to escape today's high heat conditions to contact the EMA office at 794-9720 for assistance.

Check on senior citizens and contact the appropriate agency should you need assistance.

Know the signs and ways to prevent heat-illnesses. They could be deadly!