At the peak of summer, everyone is looking for a place to beat the heat. While there are many local swimming holes in the Tri-Town area, each town offers a safe place for swimming.

In Deep River, Plattwood Park is the most popular public swimming area, according Carol Jones, director of Deep River Parks & Recreation. Jones noted that the park is located on Route 80 and that entry for residents of Deep River is free. The park is open to the public, though non-residents are required to purchase a gate pass.

Jones noted that recently, "Plattwood has become busier. We owe that to the fact that we have our skateboard park there and a basketball court."

She also mentioned the various events that take place at Plattwood including Misfit Cruisers, a show of antique collectibles and cars every Tuesday. In addition to Misfit Cruisers, a basketball clinic and summer league run on Thursdays-and there is a group of model sailboat racers that meets on Sundays.

"Our youth summer camp uses it on Tuesday afternoons and Fridays," Jones added.

She commented on the use of the park for picnics as new grills have just been installed this summer, saying that Plattwood "seems very popular." The park is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Saturday to Thursday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays.

Rick Audet, director of Essex Park & Recreation, said, "Viney Hill Brook Park is the only municipally run place to swim."

The park is located at the end of Hillside Drive; no lifeguard is on duty. Visit www.essexct.gov/park-and-recreation for more information.

Cedar Lake in Chester is open to patrons who have a pass, which are available at the Town Clerk's Office. The Town of Chester owns about one third of the lake's shore while the remainder is owned privately or by the YMCA. The Town of Chester beach on West Main Street is supervised through Monday, Aug. 18 from 10:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. and offers a picnic area, pavilion, and food concessions. For more information, visit www.chesterct.org.