Couch's Corner: Cooling center open in Shafter

With the summer months starting to get into full swing and triple-digit temperatures heading to the Fourth District, our office is pleased to announce that cooling centers will be open again this summer. Please see the attached information below. Our office will notify you what days and locations these cooling centers will be open.

For the health, safety and comfort of our residents, the Kern County Parks Division, in cooperation with the Department of Aging and Adult Services, other Kern County agencies and/or districts and PG&E, will open cooling centers throughout Kern County when the temperatures are forecast by the National Weather Service to exceed certain highs.

Cooling centers open in the San Joaquin and Kern River valleys when the temperatures are forecast to be 105 degrees or higher, in the desert areas when the temperatures are forecast to be 108 degrees or higher and in Frazier Park when temperatures are forecast to be 95 degrees or higher. The centers are open from 1 to 8 p.m. If you need transportation to a cooling center, call 211.

The cooling centers daily report will be issued by 11 a.m. on the day before the centers open. Weekend cooling center openings will be released by 11 a.m. Fridays.

Residents using the cooling centers are encouraged to bring their favorite nonalcoholic beverages, snacks, reading materials, games, etc., to better enjoy the centers.

In an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, all cooling center visitors:

#&25A0 Are encouraged to wear a face covering.

#&25A0 Will be screened for temperature and symptoms upon entry. Visitors who have a fever or are exhibiting symptoms will not be allowed in the center

#&25A0 Must practice physical distancing at all times. Keep at least 6 feet away from one another.

The local cooling centers is in Shafter at the Walker Senior Center, 505 Sunset Ave.

If you are interested in being added to our email contact list, or if you have any questions for me, contact the District 4 office at 661-868-3680 or email us at district4@kerncounty.com. Have a safe week. Stay healthy.

David Couch represents Kern County’s 4th District, including Shafter an Wasco.