“Cool Zones” can provide you some relief from the heat

SALT LAKE COUNTY — Utah’s hottest days are now upon us.  Whether your AC unit at home needs a break or isn’t up for the challenge against the heat wave, “Cool Zones” are a great way to escape the heat. Salt Lake County has been helping Utahns avoid heat exhaustion for 10 years with its cool zone initiative.

Afton January from Aging and Adult Services said there are many cool zones you can visit.

“Almost all of our recreation centers, senior centers, and libraries are cool zones,” she said. “Some of the activities that occur at those facilities do have costs associated with them. However, there’s no cost to enter a cool zone. Take a load off, hydrate, and enjoy that nice cold air conditioning.”

Other cool center options can be a trip to your local mall and your nearest movie theater. If staying indoors isn’t an option, January offers her top tips.

“Seeking shelter, staying out of the sun, avoiding doing hard exercise, hard physical activity, and wearing lightweight breathable clothing,” she said. “Especially during those hot hours which tend to be from around 12 until 4 or 5 p.m.”

Check with your local cool zone for hours of operation in your neighborhood.

Related Reading:

• The number one cause of weather-related deaths: Heat
• Preparing for and staying safe in extreme heat
• Hot weather hazards: protecting pets from the heat