DeKalb County launches extreme heat plan, free pool admissions, cooling centers, drinking water and more

DECATUR, GA– As dangerously high temperatures continue across metro Atlanta, DeKalb County today announced a comprehensive countywide response to help residents safely navigate extreme heat while protecting employees, supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, and ensuring uninterrupted government services. 

The County’s Extreme Heat Response includes: 

·      Expanded cooling resources for individuals experiencing homelessness 

·       Free admission to County pools during periods of extreme heat, air-conditioned recreation centers serving as cooling and hydration centers, and 

·       A new Summer Remote Work Policy designed to protect eligible County employees while supporting the County’s sustainability goals 

“Extreme heat is no longer just a seasonal inconvenience, it is a public health issue, a workplace safety issue, and a challenge that requires proactive leadership,” said DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. “At DeKalb County, we believe in preparing before a crisis, not simply responding after one. This comprehensive response reflects our commitment to protecting our most vulnerable neighbors, supporting our residents, safeguarding our employees, and ensuring we continue delivering the high-quality services our community depends on every day.” 

Protecting vulnerable residents 

The County’s priority is ensuring individuals experiencing homelessness have access to safe, air-conditioned spaces during periods of extreme heat.

In partnership with local service providers, the following Community Day Centers will operate as cooling centers during normal business hours.

Community Day Center Cooling Centers

South DeKalb Day Center at New Life Community Alliance 
3592 Flat Shoals Road 
Decatur, GA 30034        

Frontline Response 
2585 Gresham Road 
Atlanta, GA 30316  

Peace Baptist Church Annex 
3999 Covington Highway 
Decatur, GA 30032 

Golden Door Event Center 
2944 Ember Drive 
Decatur, GA 30034 

Each location provides air-conditioned space, drinking water, and access to critical wraparound services, including housing navigation, case management, health screenings, employment assistance, and other supportive resources that help individuals move toward long-term stability. 

“Extreme heat poses serious health risks, particularly for our most vulnerable residents,” Cochran-Johnson said. “These centers provide much more than relief from the heat. They connect people with the resources and services they need while offering a safe place during dangerous temperatures.”  

Expanded cooling resources for residents 

To help residents beat the heat, DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will offer free admission to all operating County outdoor pools during periods of excessive heat. 

Free Outdoor Pools & Splash Pad 

·       Gresham Park Pool 
3113 Gresham Road SE, Atlanta, GA 30316  

·       Lithonia Park Pool 
2501 Park Drive, Lithonia, GA 30058  

·       Medlock Park Pool 
874 Gaylemont Circle, Decatur, GA 30033  

·       Tobie Grant Park Pool 
644 Parkdale Drive, Scottdale, GA 30079  

·       Kittredge Park Pool 
2535 North Druid Hills Road, Atlanta, GA 30329  

·       N.H. Scott Park Pool 
2230 Tilson Road, Decatur, GA 30032  

·       Midway Park Pool 
3181 Midway Road, Decatur, GA 30032  

·       Exchange Park Splash Pad 
2771 Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30034  

Residents may also visit any of the following air-conditioned recreation centers, which will serve as cooling and hydration centers during normal operating hours. Complimentary drinking water will be available at every location. 

Cooling & Hydration Centers 

·       East Central DeKalb Community Center 
4885 Elam Road, Stone Mountain, GA 30083  

·       Exchange Recreation Center 
2771 Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30034

·       Hamilton Recreation Center 
3262-B Chapel Street, Scottdale, GA 30079  

·       Mason Mill Community Center 
1340 McConnell Drive, Decatur, GA 30033  

·       Midway Recreation Center 
3181 Midway Road, Decatur, GA 30032  

·       Redan Recreation Center 
1839 Phillips Road, Lithonia, GA 30058  

·       Tobie Grant Recreation Center & Library 
593 Parkdale Drive, Scottdale, GA 30079  

·       Gresham Recreation Center 
3113 Gresham Road SE, Atlanta, GA 30316  

·       N.H. Scott Recreation Center 
2230 Tilson Road, Decatur, GA 30032  

·       Lucious Sanders Recreation Center 
2484 Bruce Street, Lithonia, GA 30058 

Hydration stations with complimentary drinking water will be available at each recreation center. 

“Our mission is to improve the quality of life for DeKalb County residents,” said Chris Bass, Director of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Affairs. “By opening our pools free of charge during periods of extreme heat and making our recreation centers available as cooling and hydration centers, we’re ensuring residents have safe places to escape dangerous temperatures, stay hydrated, and protect their health. We encourage families to take advantage of these resources and enjoy a safe summer.” 

Protecting county employees 

Beginning July 1 through September 1, Department Directors will have the discretion to increase remote work for eligible, non-essential employees from two days per week to three days per week.

Departments are also encouraged to implement operational adjustments for employees whose work must be performed outdoors by: 

• Beginning shifts earlier in the morning whenever operationally possible. 
• Increasing hydration breaks. 
• Providing access to shaded or air-conditioned rest areas. 
• Adjusting work schedules to reduce exposure during peak afternoon temperatures.

“Our employees are our greatest asset,” Cochran-Johnson said. “This policy reflects a smart and balanced approach to government. It protects our employees while ensuring we continue delivering the excellent service our residents expect.” 

The Summer Remote Work Policy also advances DeKalb County’s sustainability goals by reducing unnecessary commutes during the hottest months of the year, lowering vehicle emissions, improving air quality, reducing traffic congestion, and supporting the County’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

“Sometimes the best solutions protect both our people and our planet,” Cochran-Johnson said. “This initiative does exactly that.” 

Heat safety remains critical

The DeKalb Emergency Management Agency is encouraging residents to take simple precautions during periods of extreme heat: 

• Drink plenty of water. 
• Limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day. 
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. 
• Check on seniors, neighbors, and individuals with underlying health conditions. 
• Never leave children or pets unattended in parked vehicles. 
• Ensure pets have access to fresh water, shade, and cooler walking times during the morning and evening hours. 

“Extreme heat is one of the deadliest weather hazards we face,” said C.J. Avory, Director of the DeKalb Emergency Management Agency. “Preparing before temperatures become dangerous can save lives. We encourage residents to stay informed, stay hydrated, and check on those who may need assistance.” 

Seniors needing assistance or wellness resources are encouraged to contact the Senior Link Line at 770-322-2950.

“Our message today is simple,” Cochran-Johnson said. “Protecting our most vulnerable neighbors. Supporting our residents. Safeguarding our employees. Building a more sustainable future. That’s what good government does.” 

Cochran-Johnson added, “Today’s announcement demonstrates that preparing for extreme heat isn’t just about responding to high temperatures. It’s about protecting people, strengthening our resilience, and making smart, sustainable decisions that improve the quality of life for everyone who calls DeKalb County home.” 

For additional information about cooling resources and County services during periods of extreme heat, residents are encouraged to visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov