EAST LANSING, Mich. — Cooling centers throughout Ingham, Clinton and Eaton counties will be open from Thursday, July 18 through Saturday, July 20 in response to the forecasted heat index over the next few days.
With the heat index expected to possibly exceed 100 degrees, community members are encouraged to spend time in cool locations and avoid strenuous outdoor activities. In East Lansing, the East Lansing Public Library (ELPL), 950 Abbot Road, will be available as a cooling center during regular business hours. ELPL’s hours are 10 a.m.-9 p.m. on Thursday, July 18 and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Friday, July 19 and Saturday, July 20. For a complete list of cooling centers throughout the tri-county area, visit https://www.cityofeastlansing.com/CoolingCenters.
Free rides to cooling centers are available to those with a physical and financial need through CATA, EATRAN and Clinton Area Transit. Community members can find nearby cooling centers and find out if they are eligible for a free ride by dialing 211.
Here are some important things to keep in mind during times of extreme heat:
- Don’t leave a person or pet in a parked car, even for just a few moments.
- Make sure pets have plenty of water and a cool place to rest.
- Check in on friends or neighbors who may have trouble with the heat.
- While enjoying outdoor activities, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, wear light-colored clothing, avoid being in the sun for long periods of time and use plenty of sunscreen.