Beat the heat Imperial Valley: Staying cool this summer

IMPERIAL, Calif. (KYMA) - As the Imperial Valley heat starts climbing, locals across the Valley are looking for ways to stay cool. From splash pads to cooling centers, officials say these spots offer a safe break from summer temperatures.

Staying hydrated is just as important as finding shade, with most city parks offering drinking fountains and water filling stations.

"We live in a county that's over 100 degrees on a regular basis, usually six months out of the year or more, this is one of those locations where kids can come, families can come and enjoy and cool off in the hotter part of the day," Anthony Lopez, City of Imperial Parks and Recreations Director told KYMA.

Cooling centers around the county give residents who may not have air conditioning a safe place to escape the heat. In Imperial, the library is open for reading and board games.

"If you don't want to run up your bill or if you don't have an air conditioner, please stay cool, drink plenty of water and the cooling centers provide that environment where you're going to be in lower temperatures and your body would be a lot better off and not suffer those heat illnesses or heat things that can happen in the summer," Lopez explained.

In addition to the splash pads, local children have other ways of cooling off.

"You can eat ice cream or a popsicle or you can go in the pool or you can go in the beach and you can see a starfish or whatever you like."

The City of Imperial is also bringing back its movies at the pool during summer break.

Officials say taking small steps to stay cool can make a big difference during the extreme summer heat, and don't forget your sunblock.

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