TOLEDO, Ohio — Planning is the key to finding a cooling center that will give you a break from the heat.
In a community effort, the city of Toledo has partnered with the Toledo Lucas County Public Library and other organizations to establish cooling stations across Toledo during this week's massive heat wave. These stations are a testament to the community's commitment to providing a place to cool down from the record temperatures expected for the week.
This included senior centers, family centers, and libraries across the city, county and beyond.
The city of Toledo's website lists all locations that will be open except for Wednesday. Wednesday is a federal holiday - Juneteenth's observance - so all libraries and most public organizations on the list will be closed that day.
Mike Graybeal, the Director of Operations at the Toledo Lucas County Public Library, has some ideas for other cool places to stay.
"If they are looking for a location, look specifically at those other areas you know to check out," said Graybeal. "I'm not sure if the museums are open, but other public areas that generally are open to the public, I'd definitely seek those out. But we [the library] are specifically closed on Juneteenth."
Looking for public areas open is an alternative way to beat the heat and stay cool during this week according to Graybeal.
"Check out the Metroparks. You can cruise through the Metroparks. They have dog water filling stations there. They have tons of shade, ample shade. And also, depending on where you are concerning the river, you might get a cool breeze off the river," said Graybeal.
For your convenience, there are two guaranteed locations you can visit Wednesday. The first is the TARTA Transit Hub in downtown Toledo, a central and easily accessible spot.
The second is Grace Lutheran Church at 4441 Monroe St., Toledo 43613, which will be open on Wednesday, June 19, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., providing a cool and welcoming space.
Check out this list of cooling centers to see options around the region.
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