Cooling Stations Open in Easton, Plus Other Ways to Beat the Heat

Due to the current heat wave and expected high temperatures, cooling stations have been opened in the City of Easton.

The Salvation Army at 1110 Northampton St. in the city's West Ward is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. They can be reached at 610-258-9531

Boys & Girls Club of Easton at 210 Jones Houston Way in Southside is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Club asks that people call ahead before arrival. 484-239-2075

"In addition, we can recommend that seniors take the bus to the area malls which are air conditioned," said Easton Fire Chief John Bast.

Taking a trip to the local library is also a way to beat the heat, at least for a little while. Pop by those air conditioned stacks and pick out some cool summer reading to enjoy in the shade when you get home.

Cooling off in community pools is another way to beat the heat, with the added benefit that they provide something for all ages for a minimal fee.

Easton pools are open daily from noon to 7 p.m. A day pass for city residents is $5 or $3 for children and seniors. Day passes for those from outside the city are $7 for adults or $5 for children and seniors. There is a $2 discount on admission beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Heil Pool is located at 900 Packer Avenue in Southside Easton--reach the pool at 610-250-6714
(Note, Heil Pool will close at 5 p.m. today, July 16 for a swim team meet. Otherwise, regular hours of operation apply.)

Eddyside Pool is located on Route 611 North at the base of College Hill. The phone number there is 610-250-6713

For more about Easton's pools, including pool rules, click here.

Not up for a swim in the pool, but you'd still like to get a little wet and cool off? Go old-school. Consider dunking your feet in the Bushkill Creek or wade in the shallow, calm parts along the Karl Stirner Arts Trail. Stream-fed, this is probably the coolest waterway in Easton, in more ways than one.

According to the Center for Disease Control, you can take these steps to prevent heat-related illnesses during hot weather:

•     Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as possible.
•     Drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty.
•     Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and sunscreen.
•     Schedule outdoor activities carefully.
•     Pace yourself.
•     Take cool showers or baths to cool down.
•     Check on a friend or neighbor and have someone do the same for you.
•     Do not leave children or pets in cars.
•     Check the local news for health and safety updates.

Other simple ways to beat the heat include:

• Keep frozen treats such as ice cream and popsicles in the freezer that can help you keep cool during hot weather
• Eat cold foods such as sandwiches and salads instead of cooking, especially if you don't have air conditioning
• Eating fresh fruits and vegetables are also another way to help keep hydrated.