Mayor Andrew Ginther of the City of Columbus, Ohio has ordered five community centers to remain open this weekend to give residents a place to cool off during the extreme heat.

“Forecasts anticipate extended high temperatures through the weekend, and we want to make sure Columbus residents have ways to help keep cool,” said Mayor Ginther.

“I also encourage residents to check on the wellness of their neighbors as the heat continues.”

Five community centers will be open to the public from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. Saturday, July 20 and Sunday, July 21, 2019:

• Barnett Community Center, 1184 Barnett Rd. Columbus, OH 43227
• Beatty Community Center, 247 N. Ohio Ave. Columbus, OH 43203
• Marion Franklin Community Center, 2801 Lockbourne Rd. Columbus, OH 43207
• Westgate Community Center, 455 S. Westgate Ave. Columbus, OH 43204
• Whetstone Community Center, 3923 N. High St. Columbus, OH 43214

All remaining community centers which operate Monday through Friday, will remain closed over the weekend, but are scheduled to reopen with regular hours on Monday, July 22, 2019.

The city’s outdoor pools are open regular hours for $1 per person entrance fee. The city’s playgrounds remain free and open to the public regular hours through the weekend.

Columbus Public Health reminds residents of ways to stay healthy and safe in hot weather:

• Drink plenty of water – do not wait until you are thirsty.
• Stay inside in air conditioning whenever possible. If you do not have an air conditioner, use movie theatres, malls, libraries and other public places that are cool.
• Avoid beverages with alcohol, caffeine and sugar because they will dehydrate you.
• Eat light meals
• Wear lightweight, light colored clothing and a hat.
• Stay in the shade.
• Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.