Due to the region’s anticipated heat, Pierce County libraries and other facilities are inviting people to stop by and cool off. With temperatures expected to exceed 90 degrees in some places this week, these air conditioned facilities can be valuable respites from the heat. Citizens are also encouraged to take advantage of cooler air in other public buildings such as movie theaters, malls and other stores.

In addition, all Lowe’s, Petco, and Petsmart locations and VCA Pacific Avenue Animal Hospital will allow people and their pets to come in and get out of the heat. Pets need to be on a leash or in a crate. Owners must provide water if they plan on staying for long periods of time.

Everyone is welcome at the cooling centers. Here are the locations and times the facilities will be open — http://www.co.pierce.wa.us/xml/abtus/ourorg/communications/newslinks/coolingcenters2.pdf . Please note, no food or beverages will be provided.