Those wanting to find a cool spot for respite from the heat need look no further than the Salvation Army.

The facility at 615 S. Main St. always has been a respite place, but as temperatures soar, it is a cooling center in the afternoon to allow people to be in a safe and cool environment, said Sgt. Jay Spalding.

Those in need may also eat at the 5:30 p.m. feeding program to avoid creating heat in the home caused by using a stove, he said.

Samantha Holtz was one of about seven people taking advantage of a cool room and a wide-screen television at the center Friday afternoon.

“It’s a good environment,” she said, munching on a baked potato she was provided as a snack.

 “A lot of people who come down here just want to watch TV,” said  Emanuel London.

Don Norris, who moved to Muskogee in January, said he stays nights at the Gospel Rescue Mission. Holtz said she also spends nights at the mission.

Both said those sheltered at night at the Mission must leave by 8 a.m. and can’t go back in a room at the mission until 5 p.m., except on Sundays.

Those are the rules whether it’s a snow storm outside or a heat wave, Norris said.

“It’s just a night shelter,” Holtz said.

“This (Salvation Army) is more like a haven,” said Norris. “I can stay in the cold. I get most of my help from here.”

Holtz said there was no drama at the Salvation Army, and everyone gets along.

The television has 72 channels, and there is no argument over what channel is going to be watched when Bonanza or Gunsmoke are on, one man said, chuckling.

“This is one of the best places to be out of the heat,” Holtz said.

Norris said a lot of women and children have been coming to the Salvation Army in the afternoons, “trying to beat the heat.”

Some of those present said they sometimes they go to the library to be cool.

“But here you can laugh or just nod off to sleep,” Holtz said.

Michael McGee, an employee at the Salvation Army, said the number who come to cool often varies.

“Sometimes we have up to 30 for dinner,” he said.

Reach Donna Hales at 684-2923 or dhales@muskogeephoenix.com.