It could be another scorching stint of hot summer weather in the Tri-Cities.
A heat warning has yet to be put in place by Environment Canada, as of this publication (Aug. 5), but cities in the region are preparing for a possible temperature spike that could bring the mercury to the mid 30s with humidity.
Port Moody
A cooling centre will open at 9 a.m. today (Aug. 6) inside Port Moody's Civic Centre Galleria (100 Newport Dr.) to help those most vulnerable cool down from the heat.
It's operating hours are as follows:
- Aug. 6 = 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Aug. 7 = 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Aug. 8 and 9 = 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
As well, misting tents will be set up from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day at Kyle Centre (125 Kyle St.), Pioneer Memorial Park (275 Knowles St.) and Rocky Point Park (2800-block Murray Street).
Coquitlam
In Coquitlam, several of the city's community facilities will be open at regular operating hours in serving as a place where residents can cool off from hot weather, including Dogwood Pavilion, Smiling Creek Activity Centre and the Innovation Centre at Town Centre Park.
City crews will also erect misting tents in three public spaces from 1 to 9 p.m. if and when a heat warning is officially issued for the region.
This includes:
- Spirit Square (off Burlington Drive, opposite Coquitlam City Hall)
- Mundy Park (off Hillcrest Street, between the playground and picnic shelters)
- Town Centre Park (TD Community Plaza area and by the Percy Perry Stadium)
If a heat warning is issued soon, Coquitlam is set to open its spray parks an hour earlier (9 a.m. to 9 p.m.) at every location — except for Blue Mountain and Town Centre Parks at 10 a.m.
You can also visit the City of Coquitlam's website for more information on outdoor pools and spray parks.
Port Coquitlam
Port Coquitlam officials are also encouraging local residents to stay hydrated and cool as much as possible.
Public facilities with air-conditioning include Hyde Creek Recreation Centre, Port Coquitlam Community Centre (PCCC) and the Terry Fox Library.
For more information, you can visit the city's website.
All three municipalities are also reminding every member of the public to take every precaution to prevent exhaustion or stroke when Mother Natures kicks up the heater.
Symptoms of heat-related illnesses include dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, rapid breathing, extreme thirst or changes in behaviour.
Don't leave children or pets in hot vehicles, city officials stress, regardless of how short a stop or visit is, and check in on vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours.
If you can't get to a cooling centre in your community, other tips to stay cool are as follows:
- Drink plenty of cool fluids
- Bring a water bottle if heading outdoors
- Avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day
- Seek out air-conditioned spaces
- Wear a hat and light, loose clothing
- Apply sunscreen if heading outdoors
