Image Credit: Kent Simmonds / CFJC Today

By Dylana Kneeshaw

HEAT WAVE

Cooling options becoming available around Kamloops in response to record-breaking temperatures

Jul 8, 2024 | 5:30 PM

KAMLOOPS — The heat is on in Kamloops and the response efforts have kicked in over the past weekend to prevent heat-related injuries and deaths.

Glenn Hilke, operator of The Loop drop-in centre along Tranquille Road says he was disappointed there wasn’t an indoor cooling centre enacted by the city for this week.

“We live in what’s considered the epicentre of climate change in B.C., and it’s not something surprising that we have another heat wave or heat dome,” he stresses. “I mean, the last [heat dome] killed 600 people in British Columbia.”

In response, The Loop has turned itself into a cooling centre, using community donations to make meals, water and air conditioning available to people who need to get out of the heat.

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“We’re looking at basically 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. every day. And depending on the traffic and the weather, we might stay open. Last night, we stayed up until 9:00,” explains Hilke. “We put up tents today, hoping to get more shade for folks outside, because people kind of come and go.”

For the duration of this week, the Sandman Centre is not available for public cool downs. The city explained last week that the facility wouldn’t be an option for that purpose until July 13, as the recreational facility is being used for a previously scheduled event.

“The Sandman Centre is currently booked so we will utilize the Sandman Centre if heat activation does exist throughout the summer,” notes Community Services Manager Will Beatty.

Libraries and other indoor public spaces with air conditioning are still available, and public swimming is free this week at city pools and the downtown YM-YWCA pool. The city’s Community Service Officers are also doing wellness checks and passing out water to people who need it.

The city has also partnered up with the ASK Wellness Society for an emergency heat response at 433 Tranquille Road. Tents, tables to sit around and a misting station have been set up behind the building. ASK will also be offering access to public showers, providing sunscreen, water and Gatorade, along with directing people to whatever health and social resources they might need.

For seniors, the Kamloops Centre for Seniors Information (CSI) says it’s crucial that loved ones check in on their older relatives or friends, and make sure they know how to set up their living spaces to stay cool. On that note, Kamloops CSI officials says they can answer questions around how to access a free portable air conditioning unit through BC Hydro. The seniors centre can be reached at (250) 554-4145.

Beatty reiterates that one of the key actions people should take regardless of age is simply checking in on one another.

“Make sure you check on your neighbours, those folks who may not be connected to services,” he notes. “Make sure that we’re checking in with our neighbours and making sure that they’re cool in the evening, provided water, and if they do need help, call 9-1-1.”

Those who are at risk of heat stroke include homeless individuals and seniors, along with people who live alone, have any kind of pre-existing health condition, or mental illness, those with limited mobility, people who work outside, pregnant people and babies or children.

“If you see somebody that looks like they’re in distress, don’t take it for granted that they’re just another homeless person on the street. This could be one of your neighbours who is suffering from heat stroke,” reiterates Hilke.