HIGH POINT, N.C. - The Salvation Army of High Point wants to help you beat the summer heat.
Beginning this week, you can pick up a bottle of cold water and relax in the cooling station out of the blazing sun.
The Salvation Army of High Point will operate the cooling station weekly during the summer months.
"The primary concern of The Salvation Army is the health and safety of our local citizens," said Antoine Dalton, Director of Social Services at The Salvation Army of High Point.
According the CDC, more than 600 people in the U.S. are killed by extreme heat every year.
Heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion or heat stroke, happen when the body is not able to properly cool itself.
The body normally cools itself by sweating; however, this might not be enough during extreme heat.
In these cases, a person's body temperature rises faster than it can cool itself down, potentially causing damage to the brain and other vital organs.
"Our homeless population is especially susceptible to dangerous dehydration during these extreme weather conditions. It's difficult enough for the homeless to find shelter and shade, but it can be even more difficult for them to find water. It is important that we keep water available for those who may be at risk of severe dehydration."
The Salvation Army of High Point will operate the cooling station Monday through Friday from 8am-12pm and 1pm-5pm.
The Salvation Army is asking for donations to help those in need stay hydrated during the summer.
You can drop off all donations of bottled water to The Salvation Army of High Point on 301 West Green Drive.