(Today’s Northumberland file photos)
Municipal cooling centres available for temporary relief
The Town of Cobourg would like to advise all residents to take precautions due to the hot temperatures expected this week.
Environment and Climate Change Canada issued an “Orange Heat Warning” for most of the region, including Cobourg, on Tuesday, June 30 through Friday, July 3. The hottest days expected to be Wednesday (Canada Day) and Thursday. Daytime highs are expected to reach 31-33°C, possibly as high as 36°C, with a humidex possibly into the mid-40s. Overnight lows are expected to remain above 21-24°C, providing little relief from the heat. The heat event is expected to end by Saturday, July 4.
The Town of Cobourg is advising residents to take precautions to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses. Heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke can be very dangerous, especially to those most vulnerable to health risks including people who work outdoors, people who are unhoused, elderly and some people with disabilities or chronic diseases, people who are pregnant, and children and infants.
The Town of Cobourg would like to advise all residents, that those who require temporary respite from the heat are welcome to attend one of the following municipal cooling centres.
Town of Cobourg Temporary Cooling Centres
Victoria Hall, 55 King Street West, Cobourg
Tuesday, June 30: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Wednesday, July 1: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Thursday, July 2: 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, July 3: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday, July 4: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Note: Refillable water bottle stations are available inside Victoria Hall for public use.
Cobourg Public Library, 200 Ontario Street, Cobourg
Tuesday, June 30: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Closed on July 1
Thursday, July 2, to Saturday, July 4: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cobourg Community Centre, 750 D’Arcy Street, Cobourg
Open daily: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Note: Closed on Wednesday, July 1
Tips to Staying Cool Indoors
During an extreme heat warning staying indoors can limit direct sun exposure, but it can also cause potential health risks if indoor temperatures get too warm. Stay cool indoors by covering windows and using a fan to circulate air, keep lights off or low, avoid using the oven or hot appliances, take a cool bath or shower and turn on air conditioning, if available.
Tips to Staying Cool Outdoors
During an extreme heat warning it may not be possible for some people to remain indoors or access air-conditioned spaces. Stay cool outdoors by avoiding direct sunlight by staying in the shade, reducing physical activity and outdoor sports, wear loose-fitting and light-coloured clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat, and monitor yourself and others for signs of heat-related illness.
During extreme weather events, residents are remined to visit neighbours, friends, and older family members to ensure their well-being.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
