Open your space as a public cooling center

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Beyond simply listing your space on CoolMaps, you can go further by actively opening part of your air-conditioned premises to the public during official heat alerts — the way some city halls, libraries, and shopping centers already do.

During a heat alert, vulnerable people (older residents, families without air conditioning) actively look for accessible cool places. Opening part of your premises to the public during these periods adds to your city's network of official cooling points.

• Provides genuine relief for the most vulnerable people in your area
• Strengthens your business's local image and presence
• Can plug into your city's official heat-response plan
• Naturally generates foot traffic and visibility

1. Identify a suitable space (lobby, hall, cafeteria) that can accommodate the public
2. Set clear hours and access conditions during alerts
3. Contact your local government to see if you can join an official program
4. Train front-of-house staff on this initiative
5. List your cooling spot on CoolMaps so it's easy to find