Coquitlam has re-opened cooling centres at Poirier Sport & Leisure Complex and Glen Pine Pavilion in response to the current heat wave.
COQUITLAM, BC, July 29, 2021 – Coquitlam has re-opened cooling centres at Poirier Sport & Leisure Complex and Glen Pine Pavilion in response to the current heat wave.
After a Heat Warning was issued yesterday by Environment Canada, and as the region experiences higher temperatures into the weekend, the City is providing cooling centres at the following facilities for the public to drop in:
- Poirier Sport & Leisure Complex (633 Poirier Street) Thursday - 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Friday – 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; and Saturday – 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. –free parking available
- Glen Pine Pavilion (1200 Glen Pine Court) Thursday - 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Saturday – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. – free underground parking available
The City’s cooling centres will be open until the evening of Saturday, July 31, after which time temperatures are forecast to cool down. Pets can be accommodated at both locations.
Almost all other City facilities are also open to the public and will welcome anyone looking to get out of the heat during their existing operating hours.
Updated information on Coquitlam’s Cooling Centres will be shared online at www.coquitlam.ca/coolingcentres and through the recorded emergency help line at 604-927-4357(HELP).
More Indoor Cooled Spaces to Find Relief
Residents needing relief from the heat are also encouraged to visit other cooled public spaces, such as Coquitlam Public Library (575 Poirier St. and 1169 Pinetree Way), Coquitlam Centre, neighbourhood community organizations, or support local restaurants and businesses who have air conditioned spaces.
Outdoor Spaces to Keep Cool in Coquitlam
Eagle Ridge and Spani outdoor pools are currently open through pre-registration. For more information, visit www.coquitlam.ca/outdoorpools.
Coquitlam’s spray park hours have been extended and will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. until the evening of Sunday, Aug. 1. Visit one of our nine spray parks:
- Blue Mountain Spray Park (975 King Albert Ave.)
- Burns Park Spray Park (802 Edgar Ave.)
- Cottonwood Spray Park (672 Aspen St.)
- Galloway Spray Park (3404 Galloway Ave.)
- Mackin Spray Park (1046 Brunette Ave.)
- Norm Staff Spray Park (3320 David Ave.)
- Panorama Spray Park (1485 Johnson St.)
- Rochester Spray Park (1390 Rochester Ave.)
- Town Centre Spray Park (1299 Pinetree Way)
There are also many parks throughout the community with shaded areas and urban forest shade. To find park locations near you, visit www.coquitlam.ca/parkfinder.
Staying Safe During a Heat Wave
Excessive heat can be dangerous to your health and the health of your loved ones – follow these tips to help keep cool and ensure the safety of others:
- Seek out cool indoor spaces such as cooling centres, air-conditioned businesses and community organizations;
- Avoid strenuous activities or exercise during the daytime when the weather is hottest;
- Wear light clothing and a hat when in direct sun;
- Stay hydrated – alcohol-free, caffeine-free and sugar-free drinks are best;
- Seek shelter in shaded areas such as parks and trails;
- Check on those at risk – especially elderly neighbours and those with accessibility challenges or chronic illnesses;
- Offer pets plenty of water and ways to stay cool, such as a cool damp towel to lay on; and
- Never leave pets or children in enclosed vehicles, even with windows open or in the shade.
More tips and information on how to recognize symptoms of heat-related illness and heatstroke are available from Fraser Health at www.fraserhealth.ca.
Look Out for Vulnerable Neighbours, Family and Friends
People living alone with underlying health conditions are at high risk of severe heat-related illness. Check regularly on seniors or those who have mobility issues or other health concerns. If they are unwell, move them to a cool indoor or shady space, help them get hydrated and call for medical assistance as needed.
Stay Informed
Stay up to date about Coquitlam cooling centres during heat events through the following ways:
Media contact:
Nicole Kimmitt
Risk and Emergency Manager
City of Coquitlam
604-671-5207
nkimmitt@coquitlam.ca