City to open select R-Centers on Friday, July 3 to give residents a safe place to stay cool during dangerous heat

Rochester, New York – As dangerously hot weather is expected to grip the area on Friday, city officials are taking extra steps to help residents stay safe during the holiday. Two neighborhood recreation centers will temporarily open their doors as cooling locations, giving people a place to escape the intense heat during the warmest hours of the day.

Mayor Malik D. Evans announced that the Adams Street R-Center, located at 85 Adams St., and the David F. Gantt R-Center at 700 North St. will welcome visitors from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, July 3. While most city recreation centers will remain closed because of the holiday schedule, these two facilities will operate specifically to provide relief from the expected high temperatures.

The temporary openings are part of the city’s broader effort to reduce the risks associated with extreme heat, particularly for residents who may not have access to air conditioning or other ways to stay cool.

In addition to opening the cooling sites, the city is expanding access to outdoor relief options. Durand Eastman Beach will remain open later than usual on Friday, extending its hours until 7 p.m. The extended schedule offers another opportunity for residents to cool off safely as temperatures climb throughout the day.

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Mayor Evans emphasized that public safety remains the city’s top priority, even during the holiday.

“Even on a holiday, serving our residents comes first,” said Mayor Evans. “I’m grateful to our staff who agreed to come in on a day off and stay later than scheduled so we can offer cooling sites for anyone who needs them. Please look out for yourselves, your neighbors, and your loved ones by staying cool, drinking plenty of water, and taking advantage of these locations during the hottest part of the day.”

City leaders are also encouraging residents to remain alert to the dangers that accompany prolonged heat. Officials recommend drinking plenty of water throughout the day, avoiding unnecessary outdoor activity during peak afternoon temperatures, and checking in on older adults, neighbors, and others who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illness.

The reminder extends beyond people. Pet owners are urged to take extra care to ensure animals have access to fresh water, shade, and cooler environments while temperatures remain elevated.

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Residents seeking additional guidance on preventing heat-related illnesses can review safety recommendations from the American Red Cross, which include recognizing the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, staying hydrated, and wearing lightweight clothing. Pet owners can also find seasonal advice from the ASPCA on protecting animals during periods of extreme heat.

With temperatures expected to remain unusually high through the holiday, city officials hope the combination of cooling centers, extended beach access, and public awareness will help residents stay safe while enjoying the Independence Day weekend. The city is encouraging everyone to make use of the available resources if needed and to take simple precautions that can significantly reduce the health risks associated with extreme summer heat.

For tips on staying cool, visit: www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/heat-wave-safety.html. 

For tips on keeping pets cool during heat waves, visit: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/hot-weather-safety-tips.