Beat the heat at drop-in cooling stations

Jun 29, 2021 | 6:00 AM

More temperature records were shattered around B.C. on Monday including the all-time record for the country that was set the day before. Lytton got up to 47.9 C or 118.2 F, beating Sunday’s 46.1.

Vernon also set a new record of 42.3, beating the old mark of 39.3 set in 2015.

And with the heat continuing, people are able to get some relief at Vernon’s cooling centre — and they can also bring their pet.

A drop-in community cooling centre is available at Kal Tire Place (3445 43^rd Avenue) from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, for the duration of the heat wave. Thanks to a donation of supplies by the Vernon Branch of the SPCA, the cooling centre is also pet friendly.

“Extreme temperatures can be hard on both people and pets,” said Sue Saunders, Emergency Program Coordinator. “We want to ensure there are no barriers for residents or visitors who need to access the cooling centre, so if someone needs to bring their pet with them, they are welcome. The City thanks the SPCA for its provision of supplies such as blankets, crates and treats to help keep our furry friends comfortable.”

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Pet owners who bring their cat or dog to the cooling centre are also asked to bring a leash, crate and water bowl for their animal. For those looking for transportation options, Kal Tire Place is accessible via Vernon Regional Transit (Route 3, North End to Downtown), with bus stop stops located at either side of 43^rd Avenue.

The Vernon branch of the Okanagan Regional Library is also open to the public this week, including July 1^st. The air-conditioned library will be open Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For additional information about the library’s hours, visit www.orl.bc.ca/hours-locations/vernon.

“We have seen outstanding community support during this heat wave,” said Saunders. “The City has been working closely with the Social Planning Council of North Okanagan and many community groups to find access to water and cool indoor spaces. Thank you to everyone who has donated water, helped make indoor spaces available, and helped care for those who may be more vulnerable to the heat.”

The City is thanking the 7-Eleven on 32^nd Street for a donation of 40 cases of bottled water for Bylaw Compliance Officers to distribute to individuals in the community who are unhoused.

For those who may be looking for additional ways to help, the Upper Room Mission is still accepting donations of bottled water.

For heat safety tips, visit the BCCDC website. And for further updates from the City, you can subscribe to news updates and emergency notifications through our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn (@CityofVernon).

by Pete McIntyre

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