Niagara Falls Mayor Paul A. Dyster announced the opening of several air-conditioned cooling centers and city pools throughout the city this weekend to help residents beat the heat.
He said, "With back-to-back days of extreme heat expected, we are taking the necessary precautions to protect the health and safety of our residents, especially those without a place to cool off. I encourage all residents to keep an eye on their neighbors, especially children and the elderly, who are particularly vulnerable during these weather events."
With temperatures expected in the 90s, the following centers will be open Saturday and Sunday to those in need:
- John Duke Senior Center (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
- LaSalle Senior Center Building B (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
The Niagara Falls City School District is prepared to open additional cooling centers should the need arise.
The following city pools will also be open to the public Saturday and Sunday:
- 91st Street (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Hyde Park Splash Pad (11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday)
- Centre Court (11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday)
Those at greatest risk for heat-related illness include infants and children up to 4 years of age, and those 65 years or older.
The Niagara Falls Fire Department asks residents take the following steps to avoid heat-related illness or injury:
- Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as possible
- Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty
- Schedule outdoor activities carefully
- Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and sunscreen
- Take cool showers or baths to cool down
- Never leave children or pets in cars
