LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — As dangerous summer heat settles over Louisville this week, first responders are urging people to take precautions as heat indexes climb well into the triple digits.

Families sought relief Monday at local pools, splash pads and playgrounds equipped with cooling features as the region entered what officials say could be several days of extreme heat.

Even before opening time at Camp Taylor Memorial Park’s pool, families lined up to enjoy the water attractions and escape the rising temperatures.

"Why not? We can brave the heat to be here. The earlier the better," said LeeAnn Burfict, who brought her children to the pool.

At Waterfront Park’s PlayPort, Burfict and Emily Popp tried to stay in shaded areas while their children played in cooling misters.

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As dangerous summer heat settles over Louisville, first responders are urging people to take precautions as heat indexes climb well into the triple digits. (WDRB photo)

"I have four kids, so we are going to be outside all day regardless of the temperature," Burfict said. "It helps there’s a cooling mist going on, and we try to hang out in the shady spots. But otherwise, they don’t care, so we don’t care."

Louisville Fire Chief Brian O’Neill said firefighters expect to respond to more heat-related emergencies during the coming week as residents adjust to the sudden arrival of extreme heat.

"It’s preparation. Be careful," O’Neill said. "We have had a very mild spring, so this is something we haven’t really acclimated to. Suddenly, summer is here with a vengeance all at once."

O’Neill said firefighters working 24-hour shifts are taking frequent water breaks and monitoring one another for signs of heat-related illness.

He also urged residents to keep a close eye on those most vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

"Small children are not able to regulate temperature like you and I can," O’Neill said. "The elderly, the sick — check on them if you know those people to make sure they are doing OK."

Families spending time outdoors said they prepared by bringing extra water, electrolyte drinks and coolers.

"We packed up the water with electrolytes in it, and I have a cooler in the car for lunch on the way home," Burfict said.

First responders recommend drinking water regularly, even before feeling thirsty; taking frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces; checking on children, older adults and people with illnesses; and limiting outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Louisville area cooling centers:

  • Jeffersonville Township Public Library
    • 211 E. Court Ave., Jeffersonville
    • Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
    • Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • New Albany-Floyd County Public Library
    • 180 W. Spring St., New Albany
    • Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
    • Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Clarksville Public Library
    • 1312 Eastern Blvd., Clarksville
    • Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
    • Friday-Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Salvation Army
    • 528 Little League Blvd., Clarksville
    • Monday-Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • Open as a cooling center when temperatures reach 100 degrees or higher.
  • Culbertson Baptist Church
    • 4007 Grant Line Road, New Albany
    • Open 2-7 p.m.
  • Metro Government facilities
    • Louisville Free Public Library
      • 17 LFPL locations are open during regular hours and can serve as a respite from the heat. Review hours and exact locations online
    • Senior Nutrition Sites
      • The Louisville Metro Senior Nutrition Program operates 14 congregate sites for seniors 60 and older that provide a nutritious lunchtime meal and activities at air-conditioned facilities. Full hours and how to make a lunch reservation can be found online.

Operation White Flag:

  • Operation White Flag is a program to ensure individuals experiencing homelessness can find shelter during severe heat and severe cold.
  • Operation White Flag goes into effect when the heat index is 95 degrees or higher, and a white flag will fly outside each participating shelter signaling their participation in the program. People needing shelter can stay at the participating Operation White Flag shelter while weather conditions persist.
  • For a full list of shelters and more Louisville cooling resources, click here.

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