KILLEEN, Texas (July 2, 2024) - The City of Killeen has partnered with the Friends in Crisis Shelter to operate a cooling center to assist community members in need of water and respite from extreme temperatures. Forecasters confirm Killeen is currently a part of a heat advisory.

The Friends in Crisis Shelter (412 East Sprott Street) is already open daily, but will begin their intake process any day the forecasted mid-day temperatures are above 100 degrees, opening at 1p.m. and remaining open overnight, as usual. The shelter closes every morning after breakfast (about 7a.m.) to allow staff an opportunity to deep clean the facility. The facility offers an air-conditioned environment, water and a meal to anyone who needs it.

As a reminder, City of Killeen buildings are always open to the public and available for cooling off during each facility's normal business hours. Those buildings include City Hall, libraries, the Family Recreation Center, the North Precinct Police Department, Police Headquarters, etc.

Citizens who would like to donate water, can drop it off at any Killeen Fire Station, as well as the North Precinct Police Station in downtown (402 North 2^nd Street) and let them know it is for the cooling centers. City Staff will work to distribute those donations.

For any non-water donations, please call the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management first to see what is needed at (254) 501-7706.

All questions can be directed to the City of Killeen Communications Department at (254) 501-7755. The Friends in Crisis Shelter's contact is (254) 245-8269.

Extreme heat can be deadly. Residents are advised to find air conditioning, avoid strenuous activities, watch for heat illness, wear light clothing, check on relatives/neighbors, drink plenty of fluids, watch out for heat cramps/exhaustion/stroke, wear hats, and never leave people or pets in a closed car.

Residents can also cover their windows with drapes/shades, weather strip doors/windows, use window reflectors to reflect heat back outside, use attic fans or ventilators to regulate the heat level and install window air conditioners. There are more tips on www.ready.gov.

All Texas residents can also check the Texas Department of Emergency Management webpage at https://tdem.texas.gov/warmfor daily information on where a cooling or warming center is located anywhere in the state. It is updated daily.