Northern Nevada is set to experience high temps this week, and Washoe County is offering suggestions for where to beat the heat.
We encourage Washoe County’s elderly to utilize the Senior Center as a great way to socialize in an air-conditioned building. Free water will be provided. Seniors are more prone to heat stroke, so we urge seniors to stay inside and drink plenty of liquids.
If you are a senior and don’t have a fan to help you stay cool during the summer months, come pick-up a brand new one at the Washoe County Senior Center, Monday-Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Those wishing to donate a fan can do so at the Washoe County Senior Center front desk. The Washoe County Senior Center is located at 1155 E. Ninth Street, Reno.
The aquatics facilities are open and an excellent place to safely play in water. Washoe County offers a recreational pool at Bowers Mansion Regional Park, and two large-scale splash pads at Melio Gaspari Water Play Park and North Valleys Water Splash Park. Note that the Bowers Pool will be closed for repairs this week and is expected to be opened by Saturday, July 25.
Residents can also use the Washoe County Libraries, which offer comfortable seating and complimentary wi-fi. Library branches are open for varying hours so be sure to check with your preferred library before heading out.
Those experiencing homelessness can use the Resource Center at the Nevada Cares Campus. The center is open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and there is indoor air-conditioned seating, water, meals, restrooms, and laundry facilities. There are also on-site case management and resources.
Extreme temperatures are especially dangerous for pets, and confining your dog or cat to the inside of a car, even on a mild day, can result in a life-threatening situation for your pet. Per state law, it is illegal to allow a cat or dog to remain unattended in a parked or standing motor vehicle during a period of extreme heat or cold or in any other manner that endangers the health or safety of the cat or dog. To report a distressed animal in a locked car, contact Washoe County Regional Animal Control Dispatch at (775) 322-DOGS between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. daily. Contact 911 after hours.
It only takes a small spark to light a wildfire, particularly during times of high heat and dry conditions. If you are towing a vehicle, be sure the chains are secured and not dragging on the ground.
For information on the weather forecast and how to stay safe in high temperatures, please visit the National Weather Service.
