Area fire departments offer chances to cool off this week

Metro Wire Staff

PORTAGE COUNTY — As dangerous heat continues across central Wisconsin, local municipalities are offering several ways for residents to stay cool this week, including free bus rides, designated cooling locations and a community splash pad.

Stevens Point Transit is providing free rides throughout the day Tuesday, allowing residents to travel around the city and reach cooling locations without paying a fare.

Anyone looking to escape the heat can also stop into the Stevens Point Police Department lobby, 933 Michigan Ave., or the Parks and Recreation Office lobby, 2442 Sims Ave., during normal business hours.

Later in the day, the Stevens Point Fire Department will host a free Pop-Up Splash Pad from 1 to 4 p.m. at Washington Elementary School, 3500 Prais St. Firefighters will use one of the department’s engines to create a large spray area where children, families and residents of all ages can cool off.

The city announced the cooling resources Monday as central Wisconsin remains under an Extreme Heat Warning. Temperatures are expected to reach the low to mid-90s Tuesday, while the combination of heat and humidity could push heat index values above 100 degrees.

Officials are urging residents to drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, check on older adults and neighbors who may be vulnerable to heat-related illness, and never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.

The opportunities to beat the heat will continue Wednesday when the Amherst Fire District hosts its annual Pop Up Splash Pad from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, 293 S. Main St., in Amherst. Firefighters will provide the truck and the water while inviting families to come out and cool off together.