Raleigh pools see slight dip in attendance despite summer heat
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Attendance at Raleigh's public pools has dipped slightly this summer, with more than 2,000 fewer visits compared with the same period last year, even as residents look for ways to cope with persistent high temperatures.
Wake County officials said cooling stations will remain open through Thursday, offering an additional day of relief. All county libraries, regional centers and health centers are available for anyone seeking a break from the heat.
Autumn Miller, Wake County's emergency management outreach, training and exercise manager, said the goal is to make the spaces accessible.
"We want folks to know they can go in there, no questions asked. We don't want them to feel uncomfortable or face any barriers," she said.
Pools remain a popular option.
Crystal Williams of Garner said she often stops by Lake Johnson Pool after work. When asked whether she visits multiple times a week, she responded: "Try to."
She added that the pool offers "just somewhere to be where you don't feel like you're about to melt."
Medical professionals warn that even pool visits carry risks during extreme heat.
Dr. Ryan Lamb, medical director of the Emergency Department at UNC Health Rex, said dehydration is common.
"A fair amount of that tends to be dehydration, as people, particularly kids, being around the water don't think to drink as much," he said.
Lamb also cautioned about heat exhaustion and emphasized the importance of taking breaks from direct sunlight.
He urged adults to closely supervise children, noting that drownings remain the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4.
"Pools are fun. They can cool you off. A lot of good times, but also have some safety concerns," he said.
Lamb said the hospital has seen an uptick in heat-related illnesses this summer.
WakeMed Hospital reported 111 emergency room cases in July and 57 so far this month, including four children.
