As the summer months approach, the City of Oshawa will offer cooling centres in three of its air-conditioned facilities during declared heat events.
This weekend is said to see high temperatures.
In the event that Environment and Climate Change Canada and Region of Durham declare an extreme heat event for Oshawa, cooling centres will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the following City facilities:
- Delpark Homes Centre – 1661 Harmony Road North;
- City Hall – 50 Centre Street South; and
- South Oshawa Community Centre – 1455 Cedar Street.
Cooling centre users have access to washrooms and water.
The cooling centres follow safety protocols (including protocols for screening and cleaning) and adhere to health authority guidelines to ensure users can practise physical distancing.
Cooling centre users must follow Durham Health’s orders that specify masks are mandatory for all community members in indoor public places, which includes the City’s cooling centre locations.
Community members can also cool down by visiting City splash pads and shaded areas at local parks and trails.
The city’s eight splash pads operate daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. with hours extended until sunset during extreme heat events.
On a daily basis, City staff monitor activity at the splash pads and clean and disinfect touchpoints during each visit. Community members are advised to respect physical distancing.
Protect yourself and your family
It is important to think ahead and plan for ways to stay cool and keep in touch with others who may need assistance to stay cool, especially during a heat event.
To help community members take protective action, Durham Region Health Department has implemented the Durham Region Heat Warning and Information System and has information and resources on how to protect yourself and your family during heat events. Learn more at Durham.ca/heat.
Community members are encouraged to check alerts and forecasts from Environment Canada and Durham Region Heat Warnings, and to subscribe to receive the City’s Public Notices and Emergency/Severe Weather updates via email.