News

New Alexandria survey asks residents how they handle extreme heat

Playing at the sprayground at Potomac Yard Park (staff photo by James Cullum)

Alexandria wants to know how residents beat the heat during the hottest months of the year.

The city is conducting a 30-question survey with George Mason University to “examine the impact of extreme heat on potentially vulnerable populations in urban areas,” according to a release.

Adults 18 and older are asked to participate.

During periods of extreme heat, the city opens cooling centers at libraries and recreation centers, and provides residents with information on pools and other aquatic amenities, like the sprayground at Potomac Yard Park.

According to the survey:

This research is being conducted to examine the impact of extreme heat on potentially vulnerable populations in urban areas. The purpose of this study is to explore the experiences and needs of residents of the City of Alexandria during extreme heat events, with a focus on access to support resources such as cooling centers, water, food, and sunscreen. If you agree to participate, you will be asked to complete a brief survey comprising 30 questions related to your experiences with extreme heat and access to support services. It will take approximately 15 minutes to complete this survey.

About the Author

  • Reporter James Cullum has spent nearly 20 years covering Northern Virginia. He began working with ALXnow in 2020, and has covered every story under the sun for the publication, from investigative stories to features and photo galleries. His work includes coverage of national and international situations, as well as from the White House, Capitol, Pentagon, Supreme Court and State Department. He's covered protests and riots throughout the U.S. (including the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol), in addition to earthquake-ridden Haiti, Western Sahara in North Africa and war-torn South Sudan. He has photographed presidents and other world leaders, celebrities and famous musicians, and excels under pressure.