Spokane: City Continues to Offer Cooling Resources
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~ As temperatures continue to soar in Spokane, the City is taking action to provide cooling resources for residents in need. According to the Communications Director, Erin Hut, and Communications Manager, Brian Walker, the City is following the guidelines set by the Spokane Municipal Code which calls for the activation of cooling centers when the National Weather Service predicts temperatures of 95 degrees or higher for at least two consecutive days.

To provide relief from the heat, residents can visit various locations including Spokane Public Library branches and the Trent Resource and Assistance Center (TRAC). The libraries that will be open during regular hours on weekdays are Central, Shadle Park, Liberty Park, Hillyard, South Hill Library, and Indian Trail. Some of these locations will also have extended hours over the weekend. For example, Shadle Park library will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday while Indian Trail and Central libraries will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

In addition to libraries, TRAC located at 4320 E. Trent Ave is also offering industrial fans, meals, hydration resources and snacks for those seeking shelter during heat waves. They also provide comprehensive wrap-around services for those in need. The occupancy data of shelters throughout the city can be found on sheltermespokane.org along with other resources.

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For those using public transportation to reach cooling areas, Spokane Transit Authority (STA) is offering fare exceptions when temperatures reach 95 degrees or above. Passengers who indicate they are traveling to a cooling area will be allowed to ride for free even if they do not have fare payment. This practice remains in effect for same-day return trips during evening hours even after temperatures drop below 95 degrees.

The Salvation Army is also providing transportation services through their vans which can pick up individuals and take them to local shelters upon request. To avail this service call 509-280-6860 or 509-280-6894.

Residents can also cool down for free at splash pads and pools which are operational daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 19 parks. The City's six aquatic centers are also offering free open swimming on Mondays-Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m. with evening open swim available at rotational pools. More information and a schedule can be found on SpokaneParks.org/aquatics.

For a comprehensive list of regional cooling resources, including an interactive map of drinking fountains, cooling areas, splash pads, parks, and pools, residents can visit Gonzaga University's Center for Climate, Society and the Environment.

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The City has also provided various resources for residents to access information and assistance during extreme heat conditions. These include My Spokane 311, the City's Emergency Management page, 211, the City's Hazard Sheltering page, Spokane Regional Health District, and Spokane Homeless Coalition.

In light of the extreme heat advisory issued by the National Weather Service, the City has enacted a new state law that prohibits shutting off access to utilities for lack of payment during such conditions.

To help those in need during this time, donations of water, Gatorade and granola bars can be dropped off at TRAC while Meals on Wheels Spokane is accepting new or unopened fans for their clients at their location on 1222 W. Second Ave.

Residents are urged to take precautions such as staying hydrated by drinking water regularly, wearing light-colored clothing and applying sunscreen when going outside. It is also important not to leave children or pets in vehicles during hot weather. Checking on neighbors, friends and family is also encouraged during heat waves.

The City will continue to monitor information from the National Weather Service Spokane and respond accordingly based on their Emergency Management protocols as conditions change.

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