'This is unsafe:' Cooling centers offer relief, restaurants get creative amid extreme heat

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- While the heat may feel good to some, it can be very dangerous.

According to the Milwaukee Health Department, more than 600 people across the country die from health problems caused by excessive heat.

Repairers of the Breach is one of three cooling centers here in Milwaukee making sure people get out of the sun and stay hydrated.

"We go into the mode of lifesaving, keeping folks hydrated and safe. They can come here, be cool, get their resources for the day," said Tommy Kirk, center manager at Repairers of the Breach.

Milwaukee is under a heat advisory until 8 p.m. Monday, July 28. The feels-like temperatures are close to 100, putting people at a real risk.

"At lunch, we are going to see 125 people, but I would say with the traffic now, on a day like today, probably 200, easily," said Kirk.

Kirk says the center offers a cool place for folks to get out of the sun, water, food and even medical services for anyone suffering from overheating.

"They kind of come and go. We got some folks that just come for lunch, some folks that come to shower and some that stay throughout the day," Kirk explained.

Kirk says it's important to watch out for people at risk.

"Make sure you're checking on other vulnerable populations, senior citizens in the community, loved ones and friends. Check on them to make sure they're safe and well," said Kirk.

Whether you're at the beach or dipping into a restaurant for a cold one.

Lakefront Brewery has come up with a creative way for their kitchen staff to stay cool, too.

"We had cut the menu down to just cheese curds and pretzels, and I think it topped out at 123 degrees before we were like, shut down. This is unsafe," said Kristin Hueneke, Lakefront Brewery executive chef.

Lakefront Brewery Executive Chef Kristin Hueneke says for years, the staff has powered through the hot summer months.

"It was miserable, people were getting sick. We're insanely busy on the weekend, so if these days hit on the weekend, we were just in here sweating buckets and tap IV drips Gatorade to try and make it through. I mean, it was a - people were definitely getting heat stroke," Hueneke explained.

Now they're breathing a sigh of relief with the brewery's new heat advisory menu.

"It's going really well, customers are really understanding. They're happy that we still have cheese curds and pretzels, and they get it. The feedback has been great online. People are like, I wish my kitchen did that," said Hueneke.

Wherever you like to enjoy your summer days, the CDC says alcohol can cause dehydration, so be sure to have at least 8-12 oz. of water per drink.