Pools, community centres offer relief from heat in Vaughan

Yorkregion.com
Aug. 17, 2015
By Tim Kelly

With temperatures expected to rise to 32 degrees Celsius this afternoon (with humidex values making it feel close to 40 degrees Celsius), a heat warning is in effect for Vaughan and the GTA.

Residents should stay cool, hydrated and refrain from outdoor physical activities.

Vaughan Animal Services advises residents never to leave a pet in car or unattended outside on hot days.

At greatest risk in extreme heat are the elderly, infants and young children, people with chronic illnesses, heart conditions or psychiatric illnesses, those who work or exercise in heat, people without air conditioning.

Drink plenty of liquids, especially water, before feeling thirsty to reduce the risk of dehydration.

The city has 10 community centres that have air-conditioned spaces, washrooms and change rooms. There are also water-bottle filling stations. They are open during regularly scheduled hours. Check www.vaughan.ca for times when they are open.

There are also city-run indoor and outdoor pools and splash pads where citizens can get a break from the heat. They are open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Take these cool tips: stay indoors in cool, well-ventilated areas; wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric; seek out air-conditioned spaces like shopping malls, local libraries, public pools and community centres. For more information, call Access Vaughan at 905-832-2281.