With this week’s temperatures melting the mercury with “feels like” degree mark hovering around 109 Fahrenheit, municipalities have opened up cooling centers all over Augusta/Richmond county.
The level of heat is dangerous especially to the elderly young children, people with certain medical conditions, and those without access to air conditioning.
The shelters also offer respite for those commuting across town and need a quick break from the stifling heat.
The various locations can be found at the city’s Cooling Shelters webpage.
Most of the shelters are operating from 9 a.m. until at least 6 p.m., however some are open later until dusk.
Those shelters are: Carrie J. Mays on 11th Ave., Bernie Ward Center on Lumpkin Road, Blythe Center on Highway 88, Henry Brigham Center on Golden Camp Rd., May Park on 4th St., McBean Center on Hephzibah/McBean Rd., Sand Hills Center on Wheeler Rd., W.T. Johnson on Hunter St., Warren Road Center on Warren Rd. and Diamond Lakes Regional Park on Windsor Spring Rd.
The City of Grovetown announced that Liberty park would be a cooling center during business hours until further notice.
“Liberty Park will serve as a cooling center until further notice. The hours are Monday – Thursday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1-6 p.m.
“As we work to help those who may not be able to beat the heat on their own this summer,” the city said on Facebook.
If anyone has questions, they can contact Grovetown Leisure & Recreation at 706-860-7691.
It is important for even otherwise healthy people to drink plenty of nonalcoholic fluids and minimize outdoor activities during peak hours. It is also a good idea to check on elderly neighbors or family members to make sure they are not suffering from the heat.
Scott Hudson is the Senior Investigative Reporter, Editorial Page Editor and weekly columnist for The Augusta Press. Reach him at scott@theaugustapress.com
