Beat the heat at cooling centers and hydration stations across the Valley

It's always important to keep cool during our scorching summers, but with Arizona in the midst of a massive heat wave, it's more critical than ever.

The big picture: If you're unhoused, don't have air conditioning at home or lack other ways to keep cool, there are several hundred facilities around the Valley where you can beat the heat.

• Cooling centers are air-conditioned, indoor locations that provide refuge from the heat, along with drinking fountains or bottled water.
• Respite centers are indoor, air-conditioned locations that offer water and space for uninterrupted rest, sitting or lying down, depending on each facility.
• Hydration stations are indoor or outdoor locations where people can get bottled water and other donated items.

Zoom in: Check the map or list maintained by the Maricopa Association of Governments to find a cooling or respite center or hydration station near you.

• You can also find collection centers to donate items like water, cash, light-colored, long-sleeved T-shirts, socks, underwear, hats, lip balm, sunblock and prepackaged snacks.