With an excessive heat warning in effect this week, the city of Santa Clarita strongly urges residents to prioritize heat safety and preparedness during the Fourth of July Parade and the holiday weekend.

Residents planning to attend the parade are encouraged to stay hydrated by bringing extra water. Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing and bring sunscreen to reapply throughout the day.

Consider wearing hats and bringing umbrellas to stay out of direct sunlight. Those who are sensitive to heat or have health conditions that increase the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, are encouraged to stay home and watch the parade on the city’s Facebook page. If any attendees begin to feel heat-related illness symptoms, they are encouraged to go to any of the six announcer locations along the parade route, or alert any city staff members or Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s deputies.

Another way to beat the heat is by visiting any of our eight city pools on July 4. The Santa Clarita Aquatic Center, Presented by Kaiser Permanente, 20850 Centre Pointe Parkway, Santa Clarita, CA 91350, will be open for Lap Swim from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. and Recreational Swim from 12:30 – 4:30 p.m. All other park pools will be open from 1 – 4 p.m.

For pool locations and hours, please visit SantaClarita.gov/Aquatics or call (661) 250-3740.

Additionally, residents can head over to The Cube – Ice and Entertainment Center, Powered by FivePoint Valencia, 27745 Smyth Drive, Santa Clarita, CA 91355, where the facility stays a cool 54 degrees. The facility is open until 4:30 p.m. on July 4, making it the perfect place to enjoy a morning or afternoon on the ice and grab food and drinks from The Grille and The Top Shelf.

Remember, all fireworks are illegal in the Santa Clarita Valley, including ones labeled safe and sane.

All it takes is one spark to start a fire. With high temperatures and elevated fire danger expected throughout the week, residents are encouraged to be prepared and have an emergency supply kit and family action plan ready.

To learn more and get tips on summer emergencies or preparing your home for fire season, please visit SantaClarita.gov/Emergency-Management.