Cooling Center

The City of Chino Hills activates a Cooling Center when the temperature reaches either 100 degrees and/or the Heat Index is expected to reach 100 or more, which means the outside temperature feels like 100 degrees or higher. During these times, the National Weather Service (NWS) may have issued a Heat Advisory, Excessive Heat Watch, or an Excessive Heat Warning.

For extreme heat tips and information on heat-related illnesses, visit Extreme Heat.

The City Cooling Center provides the following:Cooling Center

  • An air-conditioned location 
  • Access to water and restrooms
  • Available seating for individuals and/or families  
  • A separate area for you and your household pets (no more than 3 per person)

Cooling Center Rules

  • Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult
  • Please use headphones while watching videos or listening to music
  • No sleeping, personal fans, or large electronic devices will be permitted

The Cooling Center is not considered a shelter, so no cots are provided, and no sleeping or lying on the floor is allowed. 

The Cooling Center is Pet Friendly 

Household pets and service animals are accepted (limit 3 per person). Only pets that can be reasonably controlled are allowed. Per Assembly Bill 781, Cooling Centers must accommodate household pets. Pets are defined as domesticated animals, such as a dog or cat, that are commonly kept in the home for pleasure rather than for commercial purposes. 

Pet Owners are Required to:

  • Show proof of current vaccinations 
    • Dogs should have vaccinations for Rabies, Bordetella, BA2PP, and Canine Influenza, just like most boarding centers require. Cats should have Rabies and FVRCP.  Both should also be up-to-date with flea and tick control.  Please note that most Vets recommend animals less than 16 weeks not be boarded, so bringing animals this age or younger will be at your own risk.  
  • Stay with their pet at all times
  • Crate pets while inside the center
    • All pets must be kept in a suitable crate. Carriers with less or no ventilation are not recommended. 
  • Bring their own crates, food, dishes, disposable bags, litter, etc.
  • Use a less than 6-foot, non-retractable leash when taking pets out for breaks
  • Clean up after their own pets and be responsible for their breaks

A guest may not bring more than 3 pets and must remain in control of their pet at all times. Please note that the Cooling Center Staff may reserve the right to refuse admittance to animals that appear too aggressive for staff or owners to handle.  

Service Animals

Service animals are allowed in a Cooling Center and are the only animals not required (by law) to be in a separate area, nor do they have to be crated. 

Recognize Heat-Related Illness in Pets

Heat stroke in pets is caused by hyperthermia (an abnormal elevation in body temperature) and the body's inability to cool itself down. Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency and can lead to organ damage or death if not treated quickly. 

Owners are advised to seek immediate veterinary care if their pet is displaying signs of heat stroke: 

  • Abnormal breathing 
  • Weakness 
  • Pale/sticky gums 
  • Vomiting 
  • Diarrhea