Cooling stations will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday in Monroe County, according to a Monroe County Emergency Management Agency press release Monday.
The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for Monroe County and 38 other counties in Indiana starting Monday. The advisory runs through Sunday and includes potential for thunderstorms, isolated flooding, high winds and heat index values reaching over 100 degrees, which is the temperature combined with humidity.
The eight locations for the cooling stations are:
- Bloomington Fire Station 1: 226 S. College Ave.
- Ellettsville Fire Department Headquarters: 5080 W. State Road 46
- Monroe Fire Protection District Station 22: 3953 S. Kennedy Drive
- Monroe Fire Protection District Station 21: 9094 S. Strain Ridge Road
- Monroe Fire Protection District Station 23: 8019 S. Rockport Road
- Monroe Fire Protection District Station 25: 5081 N. Old State Road 37
- Monroe Fire Protection District Station 29: 2130 S. Kirby Road
- Monroe Fire Protection District Station 24: 7606 E. State Road 45
The release states the locations are a place for individuals to cool down and experience temporary relief from the heat. Food, showers and sleeping areas are not available, according to the release. Pets in a kennel or carrier are allowed in Monroe Fire Protection District Stations 21 and 29.
The NWS recommends drinking plenty of fluids, staying in air conditioning and out of the sun, checking in on relatives and neighbors and not leaving children or pets in cars unattended.
High temperatures can result in heat exhaustion or heat stroke, according to the NWS. Those overcome by heat should be moved to a cool space. If someone experiences a heat stroke, others should call 911.
People working outside should try to work in the morning or evening hours, wear light, loose-fitting clothing and take breaks in the shade or air conditioning.
Additionally, Bryan Park and Mills Pools will offer free admission this summer when the NWS heat risk is at least a category two or “moderate.” Heat risk levels are available on NWS’ website.
The Monroe County Emergency Management Agency may extend the cooling station dates depending on the weather, according to the release.
