RIers find creative ways to beat heat

PROVIDENCE, RI (WPRI) - In addition to drinking lots of water and spending time in air conditioning, some Rhode Islanders are finding creative ways to beat the heat . And, their plan seems to be working, as area hospitals say they have had no spike in heat-related illnesses.

The Smithfield skating rink is one of the coolest places to be. The rink is just one of  dozens of designated cooling centers open throughout Rhode Island. These centers offer free air conditioning, but have been empty the past few days.

• Related: Area Cooling Centers
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So how are people cooling off?

Residents seem to have found a sweet way to stay cool: ice cream.

"It was extremely busy today and usually when it's hot we don't sell ice cream, we sell lemonade. Today was a lot of ice cream, so it was a good day," said North Side Creamery owner Bob Crossen.

The city of Providence has also opened four of its water parks early to help keep city residents cool.