The city of Allentown will waive fees at all city pools during the heat wave beginning tomorrow, Saturday, July 23 to give residents the chance to cool off and escape the dangerous heat and humidity, Mayor Ed Pawlowski announced today.

The city’s Jordan, Mack and Irving pools are open from 12pm until 7:00pm.

The waiver will be in effect for the remainder of the pool season during the days and times identified by the National Weather Service (NWS) for “Excessive Heat Watch” covering the city of Allentown. An Excessive Heat Watch is in effect on Saturday, July 23. At this time, the Excessive Heat Watch is expected to be in effect through Monday, July 25.

Pawlowski also called on city residents to abide by pool regulations and cautioned that attendance will be restricted by mandatory occupancy limits.

“We are happy to provide this relief for all city residents to ensure their safety and give everyone a chance to escape from the heat,” Pawlowski said. “However, ensuring safety also means following the regulations. Unruly or abusive behavior and overcrowding at our public pools will not be tolerated.”

Some residents may be directed to use another city pool if their first choice is overcrowded, the mayor said.

“We ask that residents take time to understand that the demand for access could pose delays in access, but our Department of Parks & Recreation and Pools employees will do their best to accommodate everyone,” Pawlowski said.

The city’s Spray Park locations at Bucky Boyle Park and in the park at 5th and Allen streets are also operating.

According to the National Weather Service, the excessive heat will create hazardous conditions and the potential for heat related health issues will be high especially for the elderly and for those already in poor health.

An Excessive Heat Watch means that a prolonged period of hot temperatures and high humidity is expected. This combination will create a dangerous situation in which heat related illnesses are possible. The National Weather Service recommends drinking plenty of fluids...staying in an air-conditioned environment if possible...staying out of the sun...and checking on elderly relatives and neighbors. Pets should be kept in a cool location with plenty of available water.

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