City Activates Cooling Center as Extreme Heat Returns This Week

Pasadena is bracing for a week of extreme heat, prompting officials to activate a cooling center and issue safety guidelines for residents. The Jackie Robinson Community Center will serve as a refuge from the sweltering temperatures on Tuesday, Oct. 1 and Wednesday, Oct. 2.

Located at 1020 North Fair Oaks Avenue, the cooling center will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on both days. City officials are encouraging residents, especially young children and older adults, to seek shelter in air-conditioned environments during peak heat hours.

The City advised residents to stay indoors, emphasizing the importance of remaining in cool spaces. In an announcement officials also stressed the need for frequent hydration, even before feeling thirsty, to prevent dehydration symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue.

Pasadena authorities are urging residents to check on vulnerable neighbors, family members, and friends, particularly older adults who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. The city recommends wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, seeking shade, and wearing a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.

To mitigate the risk of heat-related emergencies, officials advise limiting outdoor activities, especially between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. when temperatures are expected to reach their peak. They also warn against leaving people or pets unattended in vehicles.

In a move to protect animals, the city highlighted that it is now lawful for individuals to forcibly open a car to rescue pets left alone in the heat. This measure underscores the seriousness of the impending heat wave.

Pasadena Water and Power is calling for energy conservation while maintaining health and safety. Residents are asked to set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees during the hottest hours and use window coverings to block direct sunlight.

Pasadena Water and Power also recommends limiting the use of major appliances during peak hours, turning off lights, and unplugging fully-charged devices. These measures aim to reduce strain on the power grid during the heat wave.

To stay informed about emergency updates, residents are encouraged to sign up for the Pasadena Local Emergency Alert System. This system provides important updates and emergency notifications about critical situations and safety measures.

City officials are directing residents to visit Bit.ly/PasadenaExtremeHeatTips for more resources and comprehensive information on heat safety. This online resource offers additional guidance on coping with extreme temperatures.

As Pasadena prepares for the scorching days ahead, the activation of the cooling center and the issuance of safety guidelines reflect the city’s proactive approach to protecting its residents from the dangers of extreme heat.