Riverside County has launched its summer weather advisories opened cool centers.  Cool centers throughout the county will open when temperatures are expected to be over 100 degrees for at least three consecutive days. The centers offer a safe, air-conditioned place for residents to escape the high temperatures expected from June through October.

The opening of the centers will be prompted by heat warnings issued by the county Department of Public Health. The notices will be sent through local media advising residents of high-temperature days. Vulnerable individuals, such as seniors and the disabled are encouraged to use the centers.  

Health officials will also issue heat advisories on days when temperatures are expected to be over 100 degrees for at least three hours. The following precautions are recommended during a heat advisory:

• Drink water to prevent dehydration
• Stay indoors and make every attempt to stay cool - close the blinds, use the air conditioner, etc.
• Avoid direct sunlight during the peak hours
• Visit a mall, library, or restaurant to stay cool
• Do not leave children, elderly, disabled individuals or pets inside vehicles  

The cool centers will be free and open to the public. Water, snack and activities will be available at most of the centers, in addition to resource and transportation information. 

The heat advisories and cool centers are services offered by the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County, Riverside County Department of Public Health, Riverside County Fire Department, Volunteer Center of Riverside County and the American Red Cross. For a list of available Cool Centers and hours of operation available after June 15, visit www.capriverside.org. For a list of heat advisories and recommendations, visit www.rivcoph.org/. A summer-weather hotline will be available at 1-888-636-8676.