Salt Lake County to reopen cooling centers amid expected heat wave

SALT LAKE COUNTY — With higher temperatures expected in Utah over the coming week, Salt Lake County announced Friday it will reopen two cooling centers for residents who need shelter from the heat. The centers will enforce the county’s social distancing and face mask requirements. 

The cooling centers will offer the public access to indoor, air-conditioned spaces. Residents are encouraged to visit if they need to cool off and hydrate, in an effort to stay safe from heat-related illnesses. 

“The county encourages residents to look out for each other and check on neighbors,” the county said in a statement. “Particularly those who are older or have chronic conditions, during periods of extreme heat.”

The two cooling centers will be located at the Mountain America Expo Center and the Salt Palace Convention Center. Parking will be free at both locations. 

The centers will be open for a week beginning Sunday, available from noon to 7 p.m. every day. 

In addition to the cooling center, health officials recommend the following precautions amid the expected heat wave: 

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and caffeine
• Wear appropriate clothing; light-colored and lightweight fabrics work best 
• Stay indoors during midday when outside temperatures are hottest, usually between noon and 3:00 p.m. 
• Avoid outdoor exercise and strenuous activity
• Know the warnings of heat-related illness, which include dizziness, nausea, rapid heart rate, chest pain and difficulty breathing 
• Visit a cooling center if necessary