Staying Cool in Extreme Heat: What Residents Need to Know This Week

As temperatures climb across Utah, staying cool and safe becomes increasingly important. Excessive heat can pose serious risks, especially for older adults, young children, individuals experiencing homelessness, and anyone who spends long hours outdoors. Residents are encouraged to take precautions, stay hydrated, and look out for those who may be more vulnerable.

Visit Our Emergency Preparedness Page

Before the heat intensifies, take a moment to review local safety guidance. West Jordan's emergency preparedness page offers practical tips, tricks, and resources to help you manage extreme temperatures. Visit: https://www.westjordan.utah.gov/emergency-preparedness/

Cooling Centers Available

To help residents escape the heat, Salt Lake County is extending hours and expanding access at several recreation centers. These facilities will include designated Cool Zones-air-conditioned spaces with seating-available during regular hours and extended hours. Cool Zones allow visitors to cool off without purchasing full access to the recreation centers. Note that not all amenities will be available during the extended Cool Zone hours.

Extended Cool Zone hours:

Northwest Recreation Center - 1255 Clark Avenue (300 N), Salt Lake City
Sunday hours: 10:30 am - 8:00 pm
Cool Zone: 2:30 - 8:00 pm

Taylorsville Recreation Center - 4948 South 2700 West, Taylorsville
Sunday hours: 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
Cool Zone: 3:00 - 8:00 pm

JL Sorenson Recreation Center - 5350 West Herriman Main Street, Herriman
Sunday hours: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Cool Zone: 3:00 - 8:00 pm

Dimple Dell Recreation Center - 10670 South 1000 East, Sandy
Sunday hours: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Cool Zone: 3:00 - 8:00 pm

SLC Sports Complex - 645 South Guardsman Way, Salt Lake City
Sunday hours: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Cool Zone: 5:00 - 8:00 pm

All Cool Zones feature air conditioning and seating. Water or bottle-filling stations may also be available throughout the weekend. For a full list of locations and hours, visit SLCo.to/zones.

Resources for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness

Homeless Resource Centers across the county will maintain their regular operating hours. In addition, the Weigand Center, located at 437 W 200 S in Salt Lake City, is open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm and welcomes anyone needing relief from the heat.

How You Can Help

Extreme heat can affect anyone, but certain groups are at higher risk. Residents are asked to check on neighbors, relatives, and pets, and be mindful of people who may struggle in high temperatures. Basic steps like drinking plenty of water, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat, and never leaving children or animals in parked vehicles can prevent heat-related emergencies.

By staying informed and taking advantage of local cooling resources, we can help ensure our community stays safe, comfortable, and healthy during extreme heat events.