SHREVEPORT, La. — As temperatures begin to climb ahead of summer, the City of Shreveport and SPAR have reopened five cooling centers across the city to help residents stay safe during periods of extreme heat.
The cooling centers are located at Valencia, David Raines, Bilberry, Airport and Bill Cockrell recreation centers. Each location offers air-conditioned indoor seating, cold water and restroom access free of charge.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, temperatures across much of the South are expected to be warmer than average this summer, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Roy Brokenberry, a recreation aide at Valencia Recreation Center, said the facility has served as a refuge for residents during hot weather for years.
"Once they come in the door, I got a bottle of cold water," Brokenberry said. "They can sit down and rest up, use the restroom, freshen up a little bit and cool off."
Local officials continue to stress the dangers posed by extreme heat. The Louisiana Department of Health reported 51 heat-related deaths and nearly 4,500 emergency department visits for heat-related illnesses in 2024.
Riley Burns, spokesperson for the Bossier City Fire Department, encouraged residents without reliable air conditioning to seek out public places where they can stay cool.
"It can sneak up on you so quickly," Burns said. "That's why those numbers are so high. People forget that you're only human and there's only so much heat you can take."
Burns said libraries, shopping centers and other air-conditioned public spaces can also provide relief from dangerous temperatures.
The five Shreveport cooling centers are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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