KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Folks trying to beat the oppressive heat that has swallowed the Kansas City area Wednesday afternoon have several options for cooling centers around town.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has compiled a map of cooling centers across the state.
Area YMCA locations also announced that they will be open as cooling centers from 1 to 4 p.m. each afternoon through Saturday due to the Excessive Heat Warning issued for the region.
Admission will be free, but guests should bring a photo ID and check in at the Welcome Center upon arrival.
Children 15 years old or younger must be accompanied by someone who is at least 18 years old.
Activities vary by location. Call 816-561-9622 to find the nearest location.
RideKC also announced that it will have a cooling bus from 11:15 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the 10th and Main Transit Center.
A cooling bus is always parked at that location when temperatures are projected to exceed 100 degrees.
Passengers will not be charged a fare to board the cooling bus.
Grain Valley also announced that everyone is welcome at its two cooling centers, which will be open through Saturday.
Cold water also will be provided at Grain Valley City Hall, 711 Main St., and the Grain Valley Community Center, 713 Main St.
City Hall will be open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, while the Community Center will be open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday.
Jackson County’s website also has a link to the state Health Department’s cooling centers map. It also includes information on health recommendations for the heat and signs of heat illness.
The Humane Society of Missouri also urged pet owners to be mindful of their beloved animals in the heat.
Don’t leave an animal inside a car, even with the window cracked.
If a pet must be outside, make sure there is shade and water in a plastic bowl secured to the ground to avoid tipping over.
Be alert for signs of heat exhaustion — excessive panting, vomiting or lethargic behavior.
The Humane Society also encourages people who see a pet in distress to report it, because time is of the essence.
