City spray parks and pools open; William “Hicks” Anderson Community Center and other sites available as cooling stations
Source: City of Wilimington
WILMINGTON, DE – Mayor John Carney and Emergency Management Director Willie Patrick are reminding residents that the U.S. National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for Wilmington and New Castle County continuing through Wednesday, June 25, at 8:00 p.m. This alert signifies a high risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. The heat index is expected to reach up to 106°F.
Spray Parks, Pools, and Cooling Stations Are Open
Parks Acting Director Melody Phillips confirms that all City swimming pools and spray parks are open and available to the public. Residents can find the full summer pool and spray park schedule at WilmingtonDE.gov.
Additionally, the William “Hicks” Anderson Community Center at 501 North Madison Street will serve as a cooling center from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. both days. Please note that space may be limited due to regular programming. For more information, call (302) 571-4266.
Additional Cooling Centers in Wilmington Include:
• Delaware Resilience Hub at The Resurrection Center
3301 North Market Street
Open from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. or anytime the heat index exceeds 95°F. Offers water, lunch, snacks, and climate resources. Call (302) 420-1819 for more information.
• Friendship House Empowerment Center
720 North Orange Street
Open weekdays 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday mornings 7:00 to 8:00 a.m. Air conditioning, water, and snacks will be provided. Call (302) 652-8033 or email rashita.lewis@friendshiphousede.org.
• Friendship House Saturday Hospitality: First & Central Presbyterian Church. 1101 North Market Street. Open 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. Saturdays through the end of August. For more information, contact (302) 544-0164 or email rashita.lewis@friendshiphousede.org.
• Temple United Church
602 N. Washington Street
Open 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. during the heat wave. Air conditioning, water, and snacks will be provided. For more information, contact (302) 571-8596 or email tucone333apostle@aol.com.
• City of Love Church
2200 North Market Street
Open 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. during the heat wave.
Air conditioning, water, and snacks will be provided. For more information, contact (302) 781-0367 or email cityoflovepa@gmail.com.
• Delaware State Service Centers
Available statewide to meet increased demand. Visit Delaware.gov or call Delaware 2-1-1 for a full list of locations.
Free Electric Fan Distribution for Seniors
Mayor Carney also reminds eligible senior residents of Wilmington that the Office of Constituent Services continues distributing FREE electric fans on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the 7th floor of the Redding Government Building, 800 North French Street.
Eligibility Requirements:
• Must be 65 years or older
• Must live within City of Wilmington limits
• Must provide valid ID for proof of age and residency
• Must not have received a fan in 2024
• One fan per household while supplies last
Please Note: Fans should not be used when temperatures exceed 95°F, as they may worsen heat-related health risks by creating a false sense of cooling.
Heat Safety Tips
Residents and visitors are urged to follow these safety tips to protect themselves and others:
• Check on vulnerable neighbors, including seniors, people with disabilities, and families with small children.
• Never leave children, seniors, or pets in parked cars—temperatures can become deadly within minutes.
• Drink plenty of fluids—prefer water and fruit juices, and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Wear loose, light-colored clothing and protect your head and face with a hat if outdoors.
• Reschedule strenuous activities to the early morning or evening, and take frequent breaks in shade.
• Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces when possible—visit libraries, malls, or community centers.
• Know the signs of heat-related illness, including exhaustion, cramps, or heat stroke. Call 9-1-1 immediately in an emergency.
