BOSTON – Will the DCR open its pools early for the 2024 season due to the a scorching heat wave hitting Massachusetts this week?
The short answer is no.
Are the pools open this week?
The good news is that the pools will be open this week, but not in time for cooling off heat wave. The pools officially open for the season on Saturday, June 22 and are open daily from 11:15 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.
A spokesperson for DCR said they are working tirelessly to hire enough qualified lifeguards for the season, but most of their pools and waterfronts are already fully staffed.
Other ways to cool down during the heat wave
Even though the swimming pools are not open during the heat wave, there are plenty of other ways to cool off.
The DCR has opened some of its spray decks from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in Boston, Cambridge, Belmont, Freetown, Hyde Park, Roxbury, Holyoke and Jamaica Plain. The other spray decks will open on Saturday, June 22.
They also offer 81 coastal and inland beaches throughout the state. Lifeguards are on duty on 32 of the beaches every day from 10:15 am to 5:45 pm. Click here for more information about which beaches and spray decks are open.
Boston will open cooling centers for people who don’t have air conditioning and install misting towers at fire stations and parks.
Heat emergency issued for Boston
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu stated one heat emergency from Tuesday to Thursday as temperatures are expected to rise to around 100 degrees.
“Heat waves pose a risk to our community, so everyone should make sure they stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities where possible, wear plenty of sunscreen, and look after their neighbors and loved ones,” Mayor Wu said in a statement.
Experts are also warning people to watch their pets during the heat wave, especially if they are walking on the hot sidewalk.
