CITY OF KAMLOOPS – Residents reminded of summer cooling options

The City of Kamloops is reminding residents about the programs, cooling options, and community supports available during heat warnings. The province continues to lead the coordination efforts for the BC Heat Alert and Response System. As part of that response, the City activates a heat alert response protocol when Environment and Climate Change Canada issues a heat warning for Kamloops.

During an activation, residents can access free public skating sessions and the City’s Seniors’ Drop-in Program at Heritage House. Public swimming is also available through the Heat Response Swim Pass program. Residents who do not have access to a safe place to cool down and would like to swim can connect with one of nine participating agencies that work with the City to help distribute passes. A list of agencies is available at Kamloops.ca/Heat.

Seniors seeking relief from the heat can also visit the Kamloops Seniors Community Centre during and outside of heat events. Located at 730 Cottonwood Avenue, the centre is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. More information and activity schedules are available at CSIKamloops.ca.

“We want residents to know that there are free and accessible options available throughout the community when a heat warning is issued,” said Ty Helgason, the City’s emergency preparedness manager. “Whether it’s a public swim, skating session, shaded park space, or support through one of our community partners, there are places people can go to cool down safely.”

The City’s heat alert response protocol includes promoting community health checks and encouraging residents to check in on neighbours, friends, and family members—especially older adults and those who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat. Residents are encouraged to make use of outdoor cooling spaces throughout the community, including water parks, misting stations, shaded parks with potable water, and other public spaces designed to help people stay cool.

“Checking in on neighbours, friends, and family members can make a meaningful difference during periods of extreme heat,” added Helgason. “Planning ahead, staying informed, and knowing where to access cooling spaces can help residents respond more safely when temperatures rise.”

Throughout the summer, and especially during heat events, the City shares heat safety information through Kamloops.ca, social media channels, neighbourhood associations, and community partners.

Heat Warning Triggers

A heat warning is issued when daytime temperatures are forecast to reach 35°C or higher and overnight temperatures remain at or above 18°C for two or more consecutive days.

A special weather statement is common during the first heat event of the season, even when temperatures are slightly below regional heat warning thresholds due to the added public health risk associated with early summer heat. After the third heat warning of the year, Environment and Climate Change Canada may recommend extending the trigger threshold to three or more consecutive days at or above the regional temperature threshold.

Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the City’s heat response protocol and available cooling resources before extreme heat occurs. The City’s website includes information and resources from Interior Health, Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and BC Public Health, including:

• Extreme Heat Response Checklist: identifying heat-related illness, rapid risk assessment, and health check tips
• Household Preparedness Guide: preparing yourself and your home for extreme heat
• City of Kamloops heat relief options, including schedules for swimming, skating, seniors’ programming, misting stations, water parks, drinking fountains, and washrooms with potable water at park locations throughout the city

For current heat response information, cooling locations, and tips on preventing heat-related illness, visit Kamloops.ca/Heat.

— City of Kamloops