Image credit: Kent Simmonds/CFJC Today
Cooling Centre

City of Kamloops operating cooling centre at McArthur Island rink during heat wave

Jul 9, 2024 | 10:30 AM

KAMLOOPS — The NHL rink at McArthur Island Sport and Event Centre in Brocklehurst will open as a cooling centre Tuesday (July 9).

The City of Kamloops says the rink at 1655 Island Parkway will give residents temporary relief from hot temperatures and operate daily from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. until the end of the heat warning.

In a news release, the City notes the cooling centre could be closed if an Emergency Support Service reception centre opens. The rink would then be used to accommodate evacuees.

The Sandman Centre is not available for use as a cooling centre until July 13 as it’s being used for a previously scheduled event.

The City increased its efforts to respond to the heat wave. Libraries and other indoor public spaces with air conditioning are available, and public swimming is free this week at city pools and the downtown YM-YWCA pool. The City has also partnered up with the ASK Wellness Society for an emergency heat response at 433 Tranquille Road.

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.

Environment Canada forecasts that B.C.’s southern interior, including Kamloops, will likely remain under a heat warning over the coming days.