The City of Vernon is continuing its response to an extreme heat event in the North Okanagan.
A drop-in community cooling centre is available at Kal Tire Place (3445 43rd Avenue) from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, for the duration of the heat wave. Thanks to a donation of supplies by the Vernon Branch of the SPCA, the cooling centre is also pet friendly.
“Extreme temperatures can be hard on both people and pets,” said Sue Saunders, Emergency Program Coordinator. “We want to ensure there are no barriers for residents or visitors who need to access the cooling centre, so if someone needs to bring their pet with them, they are welcome. The City thanks the SPCA for its provision of supplies such as blankets, crates and treats to help keep our furry friends comfortable.”
Pet owners who bring their cat or dog to the cooling centre are also asked to bring a leash, crate and water bowl for their animal. For those looking for transportation options, Kal Tire Place is accessible via Vernon Regional Transit (Route 3, North End to Downtown), with bus stop stops located at either side of 43rd Avenue.
The Vernon branch of the Okanagan Regional Library is also accessible to the public this week, including July 1st. The library will be open Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For additional information about the library’s hours, please visit www.orl.bc.ca/hours-locations/vernon.
“We have seen outstanding community support during this heat wave,” said Saunders. “The City has been working closely with the Social Planning Council of North Okanagan and many community groups to find access to water and cool indoor spaces. Thank you to everyone who has donated water, helped make indoor spaces available, and helped care for those who may be more vulnerable to the heat.”
The City would also like to thank the 7-Eleven store on 32nd Street for a donation of 40 cases of bottled water for Bylaw Compliance Officers to distribute to individuals in our community who are unhoused.
For those who may be looking for additional ways to help, the Upper Room Mission is still accepting donations of bottled water.
For heat safety tips, please visit the BCCDC website. And for further updates from the City, you can subscribe to news updates and emergency notifications through our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn (@CityofVernon).
-30-