Rochester and Olmsted County encourage using caution during extremely hot weather

Anne Halliwell
Photo illustration: extreme heat[MGN]

(ABC 6 News) – With temperatures reaching the upper 90s on Monday, the city of Rochester and Olmsted County share tips for staying safe in the extremely hot weather.ex

RELATED: Dangerous Heat & Humidity Early This Week | KAALTV.com

City and county officials encouraged residents to stay inside air-conditioned buildings during the hot stretch, and if air conditioning is not available, to drink plenty of water and go to public buildings like the area’s public libraries, malls, movie theaters, and other community buildings.

RELATED: Rochester and Olmsted County offer ways to "beat the heat" | KAALTV.com

Children and pets should not be left in vehicles, even with windows open, as temperatures inside can reach life-threatening numbers within minutes.

The city and county shared the following tips:

  • Use air-conditioning or spend time in air-conditioned locations.
  • Limit your time outdoors, including outdoor activities such as sports, lawn mowing, and home improvement projects.
  • Take frequent breaks if you must be outside.
  • Minimize direct exposure to the sun.
  • Stay hydrated – drink water or nonalcoholic fluids.
  • Take a cool bath or shower.
  • Wear loose fitting, light-colored clothes.
  • Check on your neighbors, friends, and family members – especially those who are older and/or have health issues.

The city and county have also offered the following ways to "beat the heat" Monday.

  • Rochester Public Transit (RPT) is offering free rides on June 20. Anyone boarding an RPT bus seeking refuge from the heat is welcome to do so without paying a fare. Please let the driver know you are looking for a “cool place to be.” Be aware that not all buses return on the same route, so please check with the driver to be sure you do not wind up far from home.
  • Rochester Public Library will be open from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. on June 20.
  • The following beaches in Rochester and Olmsted County are free to the public:
    • Foster Arend Park (4051 E. River Road NE, Rochester) is open from Noon – 8 p.m.
    • Cascade Lake Beach (88 23rd Avenue SW, Rochester) is open from 6 a.m. to dusk.
    • The swimming beach at Chester Woods Park is open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Salvation Army’s Community Center (20 1st Ave NE, Rochester) will be open from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. on June 20.