Hot, hot heat! July’s scorching temperatures of 90 degrees and counting have led many Lawrence Countians to resort to nearby swimming pools. The escape has been a popular location for those trying to beat the heat — be it teens, tweens, adults and elderly.

Pearl Staton, manager of the family-run, private swimming facility Sta-TAN, whole-heartedly attests to this chaotic rush to the water: “It’s so hot, people are running to (the pool).”

On this sunny Tuesday, the pool was filled with over 50 swimmers trying to dodge the boiling heat.

Among the many locals partaking in this refreshing trend was Ironton resident Steve Hankins, AK Steel employee.

Hankins, decked out in reflective sunglasses, was enjoying a careful and cool afternoon away from the “200 to 300-degree working conditions” of his daily job at the steel plant, he said. Lounging around in the pool is one of his favorite things to do in the heat.

“This, and the Lazy Boy,” Hankins said.

Kara Strait of Ashland, Ky., also indulged in this retreat from the heat while babysitting three youngsters.

All in all, the children are making the most of this chance to play in the sun and stay cool.

Additionally, swimming can become a therapeutic experience for older individuals such as those suffering from arthritis, said Alice Brown, daughter of the pool’s owner.

But, make sure to be careful. It is very easy to become overwhelmed by the heat, especially with the current weather, health experts warn.

The American Red Cross stresses that individuals should be on the lookout for the “dangerous ‘toos’— too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity, etc.”

Residents also should remember to slather on plenty of suntan lotion to avoid the hazardous ultra-violet — or UV — rays, as well as use protective eye wear.

The weather forecast conditions are expected to be in the mid to low 90s for the remainder of the week with scattered thunderstorms today and Friday.