Finding Cool Relief: Heat Shelters in Your Area
This year, the sweltering heat has returned without fail.
Just standing outside for a moment during the day
can leave you gasping for breath.
On such days, a place to escape the heat
is a heat shelter.
However, how often do we actually think, "Where is the shelter in my neighborhood?"
Most of us know they exist but are unaware of their locations.
In these situations, visiting the National Safety 24 website can help.
You can quickly find the nearest heat shelters around you.
There's no need to install a separate app; just search for 'National Safety 24' on your smartphone.
What is a heat shelter?
Heat shelters are designated spaces operated by local governments to protect vulnerable individuals during heatwaves.
They are operational during the summer heatwave response period, and additional shelters may open temporarily when heat advisories are issued.
However, the start dates and operating hours may vary by facility, so it’s good to check before visiting.
While primarily aimed at the elderly or those with mobility issues, anyone exposed to the heat for extended periods can seek refuge.
What is National Safety 24?
National Safety 24 is a disaster safety information portal operated by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety.
In addition to heat shelters, you can find information on fine dust shelters, earthquake evacuation sites, civil defense shelters, emergency water supply facilities, hospitals, and pharmacies.
Anyone can use it without registration, and you can access it directly by searching 'National Safety 24' in your browser.
How to find a heat shelter
The method is simple. Search for 'National Safety 24' on your smartphone, access the site, select 'heatwave', and click on 'shelters near me.'
By selecting your city or district at the top of the map, nearby shelters will be marked with pins.
Clicking on a pin will show you the facility's name, address, and operating hours.
When I searched, I was surprised to find that there are many more shelters than I expected.
In Gunpo, the map was filled with green pins, indicating that there is likely a shelter within walking distance.
What types of heat shelters are available in Gyeonggi Province?
Shelters are not one-size-fits-all; they come in various forms such as public facilities and closely-knit private establishments.
During my exploration of Gunpo, libraries and senior centers were notable examples.
Senior centers are often conveniently located near homes, making them easily accessible.
However, unlike libraries or community centers that anyone can visit, senior centers are primarily for specific users like the elderly.
It’s good to check this aspect when looking for a shelter.
National Safety 24 distinguishes between 'open to everyone' and 'restricted to specific individuals' shelters.
Libraries are excellent heat shelters as they are well air-conditioned and allow for extended stays.
Both Gunpo Sanbon Library and Central Library are designated as heat shelters.
If you want to relax a bit, consider visiting a public library that is open to all.
National Safety 24 is also useful for finding outdoor earthquake evacuation sites and locations of AEDs (automated external defibrillators).
Heat shelters are already available in many places around us.
With just National Safety 24, you can quickly find the nearest shelter to walk to.
Don’t endure the heat; check your smartphone.
A brief respite is the easiest way to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/gyeonggi_gov/224324694545
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