Dayton, Ohio – As a prolonged heatwave blankets the region, the City of Dayton and the Dayton Fire Department are urging residents to remain alert and take steps to stay safe. Weather forecasts indicate that temperatures will soar above 90 degrees throughout the week, creating conditions that can quickly become dangerous for vulnerable individuals.
To help the community stay cool and avoid heat-related illnesses, the city has opened its three recreation centers to the public as designated “cooling centers.” These facilities are available for anyone needing relief from the high temperatures. The centers will be open Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The three cooling center locations are:
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Greater Dayton Recreation Center – 2021 W. Third St.
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Lohrey Recreation Center – 2366 Glenarm Ave.
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Northwest Recreation Center – 1600 Princeton Dr.
Residents who cannot stay inside for long periods are advised to remain in shaded areas and increase fluid intake to stay hydrated. The city also operates several spray parks, which serve as accessible and fun options for residents of all ages to beat the heat. These splash pads are open daily from noon to 8:00 p.m., and admission is free.
The spray park locations include:
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Fairview Park – 2262 Elsmore Ave.
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Five Oaks Spray Park – 329 Five Oaks Ave.
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Mallory Park – 3037 Germantown St.
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McIntosh Park – 882 W. Riverview Ave.
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Stuart Patterson Spray Park – 238 Baltimore St.
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Walnut Hills Spray Park – 2340 Block of Wayne Ave.
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Washington Park – 3620 E. Second St.
City officials are also asking residents to look out for others in their neighborhoods who may need help, particularly the elderly or those with limited mobility. Additionally, families are reminded not to overlook the needs of pets, ensuring they have access to fresh water and shelter from the sun.
For up-to-date information on the weather and any official heat advisories, the National Weather Service’s Wilmington, Ohio office provides current alerts at https://www.weather.gov/iln/.
