Victoria Hall Available for Temporary Respite from the Air Quality and Heat

In response to the heat and poor air quality, the Town of Cobourg would like to remind residents that the Victoria Hall lobby is open to all members of the public who require temporary respite.

Cobourg currently falls under an Orange Air Quality Warning (high impact). Conditions may improve Friday (July 17) morning. Smoke from ongoing forest fires in northern Ontario is affecting air quality across many parts of the province, including our area. For current air quality information and health guidance, visit Environment and Climate Change Canada.

The Air Quality Health Index for the region over the next 24 hours ranges from moderate risk (6) to very high risk (10+). Residents are urged to monitor local conditions and take all necessary precautions. The at-risk population, including seniors, pregnant individuals, infants, young children, people who work outdoors, and those engaging in strenuous outdoor exercise, are more susceptible to health problems when exposed.

Those who require temporary respite from the outdoors may visit the Victoria Hall lobby. Victoria Hall’s air exchange system is equipped with pre-filters and HEPA air filters. A warning that 100% of particles cannot be removed, however, air quality within Victoria Hall is monitored by sensors.

In addition, Cobourg remains under a Yellow Heat Warning, which was issued on Monday, July 13. Daytime highs are expected to reach 30-37°C, with humidex values of 38-45°C. Overnight lows are expected to remain above 20-24°C, providing little relief from the heat. 

The following municipal cooling centres are available this week for temporary respite:

Town of Cobourg Temporary Cooling Centres

Victoria Hall, 55 King Street West, Cobourg

• Monday to Wednesday – 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Thursday – 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Friday – 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  Note: Refillable water bottle stations are available inside Victoria Hall for public use.

Cobourg Public Library, 200 Ontario Street, Cobourg

• Monday to Wednesday – 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Thursday to Saturday – 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Cobourg Community Centre, 750 D’Arcy Street, Cobourg

• Open daily: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Tips to Protect Yourself During Poor Air Quality

To help reduce your health impacts from poor air quality Lakelands Public Health recommends the following:

• When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible
• Using a certified portable air cleaner and/or the highest-quality air filter that your ventilation system can, may help protect indoor air
• Higher-risk individuals (i.e., People with heart or breathing problems) should avoid strenuous activities outdoors. Children and the elderly should avoid outdoor physical exertion
• Reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities, especially if you experience symptoms such as coughing or throat irritation
• Check the Air Quality Health Index forecast daily
• If there is wildfire smoke in the area, wearing a well-constructed, well-fitting, and properly worn respirator type mask (e.g. N95) can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke
• For more information, visit LakelandsPH.ca/AirQuality.