As the summer days blaze on, Salt Lake County has stepped up to offer its residents some respite from the scorching temperatures with its network of Cool Zones. These air-conditioned public spaces, open during the summer, welcome anyone seeking to cool down and take a break from the heat wave that's currently gripping the valley. According to Salt Lake County, the Cool Zones can be found at various locations, including Salt Lake County Libraries, Senior Centers, Salt Lake City Public Libraries, and facilities serving the homeless.
In addition to providing a much-needed cooling environment, Salt Lake County has gone beyond by granting youth ages 0-18 free access to County recreation centers. A significant gesture, also in observance of Juneteenth, the County Libraries and Senior Centers will close their doors. However, for those who need a haven from the heat, Salt Lake City Public Libraries are an exception, remaining open as the holiday was recognized earlier on Monday, a detail not to be overlooked for those planning their cool-down strategies.
While Cool Zones are generally available to everyone during normal business hours, there are specific considerations to keep in mind. Senior Centers welcome individuals who are 60 years old or better, ensuring that our older residents have a safe place to retreat from the summer sizzle. And it's worth noting that holiday closures might affect access to these sanctuaries of cool, so it's always a good idea to double-check before heading out.
Amid rising temperatures, Salt Lake County is also disseminating guidance on how to stay safe and healthy in the heat. This includes recommending that people, especially older adults, stay hydrated with water and other liquids, while sidestepping drinks with alcohol or caffeine. The advisement suggests wearing light-colored and lightweight clothing, seeking shelter indoors during the peak heat hours of noon to 3 p.m., and keeping physical exertion to a minimum to circumvent overheating. Furthermore, it's critical to be aware of heat-related illness symptoms, which include, but are not limited to, dizziness, nausea, rapid heart rate, chest pain, and trouble breathing. In times of distress, cool respite can always be found in one of the county's Cool Zones.
