Cooling Centers Open In Rockville To Those Looking To Escape Heat

ROCKVILLE, MD — A number of cooling centers will be open in Rockville for those looking to escape the extreme summer heat, according to city officials.

The cooling centers are open when the thermometer hits 95-plus degrees or when a code red air quality alert is issued for Montgomery County.

Rockville has four cooling centers across the city. They are:

• Lincoln Park Community Center, 357 Frederick Ave.
• Thomas Farm Community Center, 700 Fallsgrove Dr.
• Twinbrook Community Recreation Center, 12920 Twinbrook Parkway.
• Rockville Senior Center, 1150 Carnation Dr.

"Community members using the cooling centers may stay in designated public areas for free," officials said in a statement. "Those who want to use the amenities (e.g., fitness rooms, computer labs or drop-in programs) may do so after paying a daily admission fee."

The four cooling centers will be open during normal hours of operation. An adult must accompany a minor using the air-conditioned public spaces.

In addition to staying in an air-conditioned place, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urges the public to look over its "Tips for Preventing Heat-Related Illness." You'll find some of the tips below:

• Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your activity level.
• Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air-conditioned place, is a much better way to cool off.
• Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Visit the CDC's website to learn more about staying safe in the extreme summer heat.

For more information about Rockville's cooling centers, visit the city's website or call 240-314-5000.