The City has opened three cooling shelters to assist residents during the anticipated heat this week. The cooling shelters are open from noon to 5 p.m., today, Tuesday, August 5 and from 8 a.m. -- 5 p.m. Wednesday, August 6. City cooling shelters are opened when the temperature/heat index reaches 95 degrees or higher.

Cooling shelters are located at:

            ● Southside Community Center, 4100 Hull Street

            ● Department of Social Services, 900 East Marshall Street

            ● East District Center, 701 North 25th Street

Bottled water will be available, but food will not be provided. Pets, with the exception of service animals, will not be allowed.

All residents should take measures to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the heat during the day.

For more information regarding cooling services, citizens can contact the Department of Social Services Fuel Assistance Office, (804) 646-7046. Elderly citizens with heat related issues can contact the Adult Protective Service Unit, (804) 646-7367. In the event of a heat related emergency, please call 9-1-1.

The preceding was compiled from a city of Richmond news release.