Heat warning in effect, cooling centres open – take steps to stay cool

Due to a heat warning, issued by Environment Canada and in effect through Wednesday, August 16, the City is encouraging all residents and visitors to take steps to stay cool. Drink lots of water and visit a cooling centre, spray park, or pool. Seek out shade if you are spending time outdoors. 

Here are some ways to beat the heat in Port Moody:

• visit our cooling centres at the Civic Centre Galleria and the Port Moody Public Library (both are located at 100 Newport Drive) to take a break from the higher temperatures experienced outdoors or in indoor spaces without fans or air conditioning – hours of operation are 8:30am to 5pm Mondays through Fridays for the Galleria and 9am to 9pm Mondays through Fridays, 9am to 5pm Saturdays, and 1pm to 5pm Sundays for the Library;

• fill up your water bottle at a water filling station in the Civic Centre Galleria or the Recreation Complex (300 Ioco Road – during regular hours of operation);
• go for a swim at Rocky Point Pool or Westhill Pool;

• bring the kids to one of our spray parks (don’t forget the hats and sunscreen);
• find a shady spot in one of our quieter parks, like Westhill, Pioneer Memorial, Flavelle, or Cedarwood; or
• walk among the trees in Bert Flinn Park; 

If you’re able, please check on family, friends, and neighbours who may be vulnerable to heat-related illness. Aim to connect with at least three people to see if they are coping or if they need assistance. And remember: don't leave children or pets in hot vehicles, no matter how short the stop. 

Heat exhaustion or heat stroke can happen to anyone who stays in the summer heat and sun for too long. Regardless of your age or fitness level, follow these tips to stay safe:

• drink plenty of cool fluids – this is the most important step you can take;
• bring a water bottle with you if you head outdoors;
• avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day;
• seek out air-conditioned spaces whenever possible;
• know the humidex rating – it combines the temperature and humidity to indicate how hot, humid weather feels to the average person;
• wear a hat and light, loose clothing so that air can circulate; and
• apply sunscreen if you are heading outdoors, as sunburned skin reduces the body’s ability to cool itself. 

Look for symptoms of heat-related illness such as:

• dizziness or fainting
• nausea or vomiting
• rapid breathing and heartbeat
• extreme thirst
• confusion or changes in behaviour 

If you think someone might have heat stroke, call 9-1-1. 

Find more information, tips, and links to additional resources at portmoody.ca/weather or visit Fraser Health’s website. Read the B.C. government’s Extreme Heat Preparedness Guide for more information on how to prepare in advance of a heat wave.