Rochester and Olmsted County offer ways to "beat the heat"

(ABC 6 News) – Due to extremely hot weather expected on Tuesday, Rochester and Olmsted County announced ways individuals can beat the heat.

• Rochester Public Transit (RPT) is offering free rides on June 14. 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 14.
• 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 14.

Public health officials encourage residents to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and utilizing air-conditioning. If air-conditioning is not available, seek public buildings during the heat of the day such as libraries and community centers, malls, and movie theaters. Children and pets should not be left unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows rolled down, even for a few minutes.

Quick 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.