Philadelphians keep cool during Saturday heat wave

CENTER CITY (WPVI) -- The sun beat down on the Chester Athletic Field as Chester High School took on the Cardinal O'Hara and the sweltering heat.

"The coaches are making sure we get extra water in our system because of the heat," said Radee Williams, Chester High School junior.

While some area football games were canceled because of the heat, this one went on under careful supervision.

Players were told to start hydrating the night before.

"We have wet towels to drape over their head in case a kid starts cramping up, salt tablets, plenty of Gatorade," said Ken Santello, athletic trainer.

Even those on the sidelines and in the stands were seeking relief with umbrellas and frozen treats.

"Water ice. Sour apple. The best kind!" said Kadreya Taylor, Chester High School senior, adding it was helping cool her down.

At Chester Fire Station 82, a bike giveaway for 50 deserving kids was moved inside, out of the sun.

Karen Hicks, of the Andrew L. Hicks Jr. Foundation, tells us she was hoping to have the event outside, "but it's 100 degrees, it feels like!"

But once the kids had their new wheels, they had to take 'em for a spin. Some more reluctantly than others.

"It's hot... It's hot!" said Cameron Baird of Chester, Pennsylvania.

The heat didn't keep students from the annual College Fest in Dilworth Park, but after a few hours, a lot of them say they were ready for a seat in the shade - and a nice cold drink.

"Our first bus back is at 2 o'clock" said Alexa Mock, University of the Sciences, adding she would be on it.

"We came upon the College Fest and have been trying to get free beverages and free cold things as much as we can," said Marcia Custer, Headlong Performance Institute.

Take it from someone dishing out that cold refreshment - desperate times call for free samples.

"My favorite today is the golden margarita," said Quinzell McCall, Capogiro Gelato, adding he'd probably eaten six or seven spoons worth.