Arrival of heat wave prompts early opening of cool centers in Riverside County

A dramatic increase in predicted temperatures has prompted health officials to activate the county’s cool centers earlier than scheduled.

The 50-plus centers, located throughout Riverside County, had planned to officially open June 15. But with temperatures expected to top triple digits by the weekend, officials opted to move up the activation date to today June 1, according to Public Health Director Sarah Mack.

The cool centers will be open to the public at no cost. The centers will be available through Oct. 15 as temperatures warrant.

“Some of our friends and neighbors may not have access to cooler conditions during the warm summer months. We want residents to be able to escape the extreme heat and high temperatures. The cool centers offer safety and comfort for residents and visitors throughout Riverside County,” said Brenda Salas Freeman, executive director of the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County.

High temperatures can be hazardous for many people, especially for the elderly and those with medical conditions. Heat-related injuries such as heat stroke, an illness that occurs when the body can no longer regulate its temperature, can strike fast and pose life-threatening consequences.

The cool centers are coordinated by the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County in conjunction with Riverside University Health System – Public Health. They are located in local libraries, and senior and community centers. Light refreshments and water will be available at the locations.

For a list of cooling center locations, visit www.rivcoph.org.