Summer took the long way to get to Kentucky this year, but now it’s making up for lost time. Temperatures will be in the 90s all week and are expected to peak on Wednesday. Even with a heat index of 100 degrees, the heat wave hasn’t slowed down our loyal park-goers.

Coping with heat and humidity during the months of July and August is all part of living in the Bluegrass, but we hope everyone will exercise heat safety as they explore The Parklands in the coming weeks. Use the following tips for a safe and enjoyable summertime visit.

• Wear loose, light-colored clothing.
• If possible, stay indoors during the hottest part of the day.
• If you must be outside, take frequent breaks and try to avoid strenuous activity.
• Use the buddy system. Work out and explore with a partner or a group of friends.
• Drink plenty of water!

Find more tips to avoid heat-related illnesses at www.redcross.org, and stay hydrated by filling your water bottle up at one of the following water fountain locations:

Beckley Creek Park

• William F. Miles Trailhead – Near community gardens
• The Barklands Bark Park
• PNC Achievement Center for Education & Interpretation
• PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Pavilion
• Humana Legacy Commons – Near donor fountain
• Humana Grand Allee – South End of Festival Promenade

Pope Lick Park

• John Floyd Community Building

There are also plenty of shaded areas, natural and man-made, where you can find refuge from the sun. Perhaps you can turn that afternoon run into an early morning run. Better yet, use the heat as an excuse to partake in a creekside excursion—paddling, fishing, or hunting for fossils. Of course, there is always our tried and true Marshall Playground and Sprayground—the perfect place to be on a hot summer day.

Stay safe, and enjoy the sunshine, Louisville!

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About the Author

As Manager of Marketing and Communications, Anna Rosales-Crone manages internal and external communications strategies for The Parklands, as well as marketing to promote facility rentals, educational programming, fundraising and overall park awareness. Anna was hired as Communications Coordinator in May of 2015 to help build awareness of the newly constructed park by managing The Parklands brand, website and social media. Prior to joining The Parklands team, she worked in communications at the American Red Cross for five years where she grew the Louisville Area Chapter’s digital and social media presence while supporting public relations, marketing and special events. She also provided public affairs support and guidance during major disaster operations. Anna is a graduate of the University of Evansville where she met her husband and the second love of her life—traveling. She also enjoys hiking, reading, baking, dancing, going to concerts and hanging out with her two cats. Contact me about: media relations, photo requests and website.