Offer escape from extreme heat
Riverside County opened its Cool Centers on June 1. These are located throughout the county, and offer residents and visitors an escape from excessive heat when summer temperatures begin to climb.
The centers will be available through Oct. 15 as temperatures warrant. About 50 centers (including two on the Hill) will be open to the public at no cost.
On the Hill, the Idyllwild Library and the Anza Community Hall are official cool centers. Their hours and locations are available below.
“Cool Centers make it possible for residents to escape extreme heat and high temperatures during the summer months, offering safety and comfort for residents and visitors throughout Riverside County,” said Kim Saruwatari, Riverside University Health System - Public Health director, in the announcement news release.
High temperatures can be hazardous for many people, especially for the elderly and those with medical conditions. Heat-related injuries such as heatstroke, an illness that occurs when the body can no longer regulate its temperature, can strike fast and pose life-threatening consequences.
The Community Action Partnership of Riverside County, in conjunction with Riverside University Health System - Public Health, coordinate the cool centers, which are located in local libraries, and senior and community centers. Light refreshments and water will be available at some locations. For a list of Cool Center locations, visit www.capriverside.org.
