Extreme Heat Relief

Extreme Heat Relief

Extreme heat is associated with several health impacts ranging from heat stress to heat stroke or more severe effects, such as cardiovascular-related disease and death. Cooling stations can provide relief and protection for vulnerable populations at an increased risk for heat-related illnesses.

Environment Canada heat alert guidelines: 

  • A humidex is 40°C or higher for two consecutive days or
  • The daily temperature is expected to reach 31°C or higher, and overnight temperatures will be at least 20°C or higher for two consecutive days.

Check in on family, friends and neighbours, especially those at high risk of heat stroke and other medical emergencies. Never leave children or pets alone in a parked car. Temperatures can rise to 52°C (125°F) within 20 minutes in an enclosed vehicle when the outside temperature is 34°C (93°F). Leaving the car windows slightly open or "cracked" will not keep the inside of the vehicle at a safe temperature. Heat Stroke is a medical emergency. Learn more about heat stroke, who is at high risk, and what to do at niagararegion.ca.

Review the following brochures for specific at-risk groups: 

(Source: Government of Canada)

Extreme Heat Relief Locations


Indoor Cooling Locations

The following City of Niagara Falls facilities are available to anyone seeking relief from extreme heat during operating hours:

  • City Hall - 4310 Queen Street
    • Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
  • Gale Centre - 5152 Thorold Stone Road
    • Open daily from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm
  • MacBain Community Centre - 7150 Montrose Road
    • Open Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 9:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday, 7:00 am to 5:00 pm
    • For a small fee, residents can cool off at the indoor pool during open lane and leisure swim times. View the pool schedule here
  • Niagara Falls History Museum - 5810 Ferry Street
    • Open Tuesday, Wednesday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Thursday 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, Friday to Sunday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
  • Niagara Falls Public Library – All branch locations

Outdoor Cooling Locations

The City's splash pads and swimming pools provide a great way to cool off during the heat.

Splash Pads

Splash Pads are open daily from 10:30 am to 7:30 pm.

  • MacBain Community Centre Park - 7150 Montrose Road
  • Chippawa Lions Park - 3970 Welland Street
  • Prince Charles Park - 8965 Willoughby Drive
  • FH Leslie Park - 5250 Valley Way
  • EE Mitchelson Park - 3750 Springdale Avenue
  • Niagara Falls Lions Park - 6320 Arad Street
  • Patrick Cummings Park - 8965 Willoughby Drive

Outdoor Pools

Outdoor pools will open on Friday, June 28th, with the exception of FH Leslie Pool, which opens on Tuesday, June 18 with modified hours.

  • Buck Hinsperger Pool - 3970 Welland Street 
    • 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
  • FH Leslie Pool  - 5250 Valley Way
    • 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm. During future Heat Advisory days, FH Leslie Pool will remain open until 8:00 pm
  • Niagara Falls Lions Pool - 4981 Drummond Road
    • Monday - Friday: 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
    • Saturday/Sunday: 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm 
  • Prince Charles Pool - 6320 Arad Street
    • 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Precautions to take during high heat alerts:

  • Plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day
  • Rest frequently in shaded areas
  • Drink plenty of fluids (unless fluid is restricted by your physician)
  • Never leave infants, children or pets in a parked car
  • Dress in cool, loose clothing and shade your head with a hat or umbrella
  • Take cool showers or baths until you feel refreshed

(Source: Niagara Region Public Health)