As summer arrives, the City of Wrenford is launching its annual Beat the Heat campaign to help residents stay safe during hot weather. Extreme heat can cause illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Both indoor and outdoor temperatures can rise to dangerous levels, so it is important to monitor them and make a plan to stay cool.
Indoor spaces without air conditioning can get hotter than the outdoors. Residents should identify the coolest room in their home, keep blinds closed during the day, and drink plenty of water. If indoor temperatures rise above 31°C, or if you cannot cool your home, please visit an air-conditioned public space.
Cooling centres are open at the Tamsin Valley Leisure Centre, Ambrel Lake Recreation Centre, Westbrook Community Arena, and all Wrenford Public Library branches during their regular operating hours. You can also visit shopping malls or stay with family and friends who have air conditioning.
Checking on people can be life-saving. Older adults, people living alone, and those with chronic health conditions are at a higher risk. Neighbours and family should check on vulnerable people multiple times a day, especially in the afternoon when the sun is strongest.
The City is also reminding residents to prepare for potential wildfire smoke. Cleaner Air Spaces are available at several community facilities with air filtration systems. Visit Cleaner Air Space Programme for a list of locations and air quality updates.
During the summer, the City will operate extra water fountains and misting stations throughout the city. Residents can report issues or get the latest updates by calling 311 or visiting Extreme weather and storm preparedness.
"Staying cool is about more than just turning on a fan," says Fiona Gallagher, GM Community Services. "It is about looking out for each other and knowing where to go when the temperature rises."
Sign up for emergency alerts to get real-time updates during heat waves. For more information on how to prepare for extreme weather, visit Extreme weather and storm preparedness.