With a heat warning in effect for the Vernon area, residents and visitors are encouraged to take precautions and make use of available indoor and outdoor spaces to stay cool.
Cooling locations
You can visit public facilities during regular operating hours to find relief from the heat, including:
- Kal Tire Place – 3445 43 Avenue
- Vernon Museum & Archives – 3009 32nd Avenue
- Okanagan Regional Library – Vernon Branch – 2800 30th Avenue
- City Hall – 3400 30 Street
For outdoor relief, Lakeview and Lavington pools are open daily and provide a great place for children and families to cool off. Residents are also encouraged to enjoy Vernon's beaches, parks and shaded green spaces while taking appropriate precautions.
Check in on others
Now is a good time to check in on family, friends and neighbours, especially older adults, young children, those with underlying health conditions and anyone without access to air conditioning. Make sure they have water, access to a cool place and any support they may need.
Local community organizations are providing additional outreach and support to vulnerable residents, including those who are unsheltered or experiencing housing instability.
Protect yourself and your pets
Remember to:
- Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- Limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day.
- Wear lightweight, light-coloured clothing and seek shade whenever possible.
- Never leave children or pets unattended in parked vehicles.
- Ensure pets have access to fresh water, shade and cool places to rest.
Recreation programs
Currently, City recreation programs and activities are continuing as scheduled. Participants registered in City of Vernon recreation programs will be notified directly should any programs or activities be modified due to extreme heat.
Vernon Recreation Centre pool update
Due to the sustained daytime temperatures, the Vernon Recreation Centre's air handling system is experiencing operational challenges that may result in temporary changes to pool operations. Residents planning to visit are encouraged to check the current pool schedule at vernon.ca/recreation before leaving home to confirm the pool is open and operating as scheduled.
Learn more
Learn how to prepare for extreme heat and recognize the signs of heat-related illness by visiting the PreparedBC Extreme Heat webpage and Interior Health's Extreme Heat resources.