Lansing Declares 'Code Red' for Extreme Heat

Lansing Activates “Code Red” Extreme Heat Program

Lansing has launched its “Code Red” extreme heat weather program in response to the current high temperatures. The initiative is active from Wednesday at 8 a.m. until Thursday at 8 p.m., offering residents various cooling centers and resources to stay safe during the heatwave.

Cooling Centers Available

Residents can take advantage of several community centers that will be open during this period:

• Letts Community Center – 1220 W. Kalamazoo St.
  Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. on both Wednesday and Thursday.

• Foster Community Center – 200 N. Foster St.
  Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. on both days.

• Gier Community Center – 2400 Hall St.
  Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. on both days.

• Alfreda Schmidt Southside Community Center – 5825 Wise Rd.
  Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. on both days.

In addition to these centers, library branches and the downtown CATA transportation center are also available for cooling off.

Library and Transportation Centers

• Capital Area District Library - Downtown Branch – 401 S. Capitol Ave.
  Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday.

• Capital Area District Library - South Lansing Branch – 3500 S. Cedar St.
  Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on both days.

• CATA Transportation Center – 420 S. Grand Ave.
  Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday.

Public Pools and Specialized Centers

Families can also enjoy the Hunter Park Pool located at 1400 Fuller Street. The pool will be open on Wednesday and Thursday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

For those experiencing homelessness or struggling with housing, additional cooling centers are available:

• Advent House Ministries – 743 N. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.
  Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday.

• Holy Cross Services - New Hope Community Center – 430 N Larch St.
  Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on both days.

• City Rescue Mission Women & Children Center – 2216 S Cedar St.
  Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday.

Mayor’s Statement on Cooling Centers

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor emphasized the importance of making these resources known to the public. He noted that while participation was low in previous similar efforts, the availability of cooling centers remains crucial to ensure no one is left without shelter from the heat.

Utility Company Actions

The Lansing Board of Water and Light has also announced that it will suspend electric shutoffs due to nonpayment during the Code Red Plan. This measure aims to prevent vulnerable residents from losing power during the extreme heat.

Health Tips for Residents

To avoid heat-related injuries or fatalities, the city has shared several health tips:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Limit outdoor activities to early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
• Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing.
• Apply sunscreen regularly.
• Spend more time indoors or in air-conditioned spaces.
• Check on the well-being of neighbors, friends, and family members who may be at higher risk.
• Avoid leaving pets outside for long periods and keep their paws away from hot pavement.
• Be aware of symptoms of heat-related illnesses such as headaches, nausea, fatigue, fever, dizziness, or weakness. If these occur, seek an air-conditioned space immediately, increase fluid intake, and call 911 if necessary.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about local news and weather updates through various channels. Additionally, businesses looking to grow or hire can explore marketing solutions offered by local media companies.