Cool off at community centers, other spots

With temperatures nearing triple digits, it’s sure to be a sweaty weekend, but here are some places in Vancouver to retreat from the heat.

Take a dip in the pools at Marshall Community Center and Firstenburg Community Center. The Marshall center, at 1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd., is fully air-conditioned. Firstenburg, at 700 N.E. 136th Ave., is ventilated with moving air but is not air-conditioned.

Both community centers have Wi-Fi-enabled lobby areas that are open to the public at no charge. Fitness centers and pools are available to members or by paying a drop-in fee. For more information, go to www.vanparksrec.org (click on Community Centers at the top of the page).

The Water Resources Education Center, along the Columbia River and waterfront trail at 4600 S.E. Columbia Way, is an air-conditioned oasis for exploring natural resources, from the aquaria to hands-on exhibits to toddler-size learning at Puddles Place. Admission is free. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. Visit www.cityofvancouver.us/watercenter.

Other air-conditioned options around the city include restaurants, theaters, shops and libraries. To view a list of Clark County cooling centers, go to http://cresa911.org/?s=cooling

Whatever you do, stay hydrated and try to stay indoors in an air-conditioned or cooled building. If swimming outdoors, be aware of cold river temperatures and swift currents, and use floatation devices. Never leave children or pets in a closed, parked vehicle for any length of time. Pet owners should provide cool shelter and plenty of water for animals. Other than service animals, pets are not allowed in the city community centers.

For more hot weather safety tips from CRESA, go to http://cresa911.org/?s=heat