Extreme heat is associated with several health impacts ranging from heat stress to heat stroke or more serious effects, such as cardiovascular-related disease and/or death. Cooling stations can provide relief and protection for vulnerable populations who may be 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
- A daily temperature is expected to reach 31°C or higher, and overnight temperatures are 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 about it at niagararegion.ca.
Review the following brochures for specific at-risk groups:
(Source: Government of Canada)
Extreme Heat Relief Locations
Indoor Cooling Stations
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 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Gale Centre - 5152 Thorold Stone Road
- Open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
- MacBain Community Centre - 7150 Montrose Road
- Open Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Saturday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- For a small fee, residents can cool off at the indoor pool during open lane and leisure swim times. View swim schedule.
- Niagara Falls History Museum - 5810 Ferry Street
- Open Tuesday, Wednesday 10:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m., Thursday 10:00 a.m to 9:00 p.m., Friday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Niagara Falls Public Library – All branch locations
Outdoor Cooling Stations
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 (closed for the season)
- Buck Hinsperger Pool - 3970 Welland Street
- FH Leslie Pool - 5250 Valley Way
- 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
- Open on Tuesday, September 5th, and Wednesday, September 6th, from 3:00 - 7:00 p.m.
- Niagara Falls Lions Pool - 4981 Drummond Road
- Prince Charles Pool - 6320 Arad Street
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)