WMVO Good Times Great Oldies
As central Ohio continues to experience dangerously hot temperatures, local community organizations are coming together to provide a safe place for residents to cool off.
Hard Knox Mutual Aid, in collaboration with the People’s Solidarity Coalition and other community partners, has opened a pop-up cooling center at the SCRAPS Community Studio, located at 300 Tilden Ave., Suite 6, Mount Vernon.
The cooling center is open to anyone needing relief from the heat and offers a comfortable, air-conditioned space, along with free bottled water and popsicles. Guests may also relax in the shaded outdoor area if they prefer.
The cooling center will be open during the current heat advisory on the following schedule:
- Tuesday, June 30: Noon to 6 p.m.
- Wednesday, July 1: Noon to 9 p.m.
- Thursday, July 2: Noon to 9 p.m.
Organizers encourage residents to stop by to cool down, stay hydrated and take a break from the dangerous temperatures. They also ask community members to check on neighbors, especially older adults and those without access to air conditioning, and invite anyone who may need relief from the heat to visit the center.
Volunteers and donations are also welcome to help support the effort. Those interested in learning more or getting involved can contact austin.farrell@hardknoxmutualaid.org.
Health officials recommend limiting time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day, drinking plenty of water, wearing lightweight clothing and never leaving children or pets in parked vehicles. The National Weather Service says prolonged exposure to extreme heat can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, making cooling centers an important community resource during periods of dangerous temperatures.
