COOLING CENTERS AS HEAT EMERGENCY PLANS TAKE EFFECT
BROCKTON, MA — The City of Brockton activates cooling centers during periods of extreme heat to provide residents with safe, air-conditioned locations to escape dangerous temperatures, according to the Brockton Emergency Management Agency (BEMA).
Cooling centers are part of the city’s emergency response system and are only opened when a heat emergency is officially declared. The goal is to reduce the risk of heat-related illness, especially among seniors, people with medical conditions, and residents without access to air conditioning.
🏢 Cooling Center Locations (When Activated)
When opened, Brockton cooling centers have included several public housing and community facilities:
Belair Towers — 105 Belair Street
Sullivan Towers — 140 Colonel Bell Drive
Caffrey Towers — 755 Crescent Street
Campello High Rise — 1380 Main Street
These locations are selected for their accessibility and ability to provide immediate relief from extreme heat conditions.
⏰ Hours of Operation
Cooling centers are not open year-round and operate only during declared heat emergencies.
When activated, they typically run during daytime hours, often from morning into early evening depending on weather conditions. Overnight stays are not permitted.
⚠️ What Residents Should Know
Officials remind residents of the following:
Cooling centers open only when activated by BEMA
No overnight accommodations are provided
Food service may not be available
Capacity may be limited depending on location
Residents are encouraged to check city updates during heat waves for activation notices and safety alerts.
🌡️ Why Cooling Centers Are Important
Extreme heat is one of the most dangerous weather-related threats in Massachusetts. Cooling centers provide critical protection for vulnerable populations, including older adults and individuals with chronic health conditions, by offering safe indoor environments during dangerous temperature spikes.
📌 Bottom Line
When heat emergencies strike Brockton, cooling centers serve as a temporary but vital safety resource, giving residents a place to cool down and reduce the risk of heat-related illness until conditions improve.
