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Designated Cooling Centre

During periods of extreme heat, please visit our cooling centre to stay cool. Extreme heat can affect anyone, but the most vulnerable include older adults, infants and young children, outdoor workers, and individuals with certain medical conditions. We encourage everyone to check on friends, family, and neighbours who may be at risk.

The designated cooling centre is activated based on the issuance of a Heat Warning from Environment and Climate Change Canada. You can expect a heat warning to be issued under the following conditions:

  • If they anticipate two or more consecutive days where the daytime high temperatures will be 31°C or more, and nighttime low temperatures won't dip below 20°C.
  • Or, when the humidex value is forecasted to be 40°C or higher for two or more consecutive days.

Once a heat warning is issued, our designated cooling centre will be opened to provide relief from the heat. 

Please click here to learn more about heat related illnesses. 


The Pointe au Baril Community Centre is located at:

70 South Shore Road

Pointe au Baril, ON.

Phone: 705-746-4243 ext.338


Features 

  • Potable Water
  • Air Conditioning 
  • First Aid Kit
  • Defibrillator 
  • Backup Power 
  • Washrooms 
  • WiFi
  • Fitness Room

The Designated Cooling Centre will be activated based on a Heat Warning issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada. It will operate during the facilities regular hours of operation which can be found here.

Symptoms of Heat Illness:
Heat illness, often referred to as heat exhaustion, can progress if left unchecked. Look for these indicators:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Cold, pale, and clammy skin
  • Fast, weak pulse
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Muscle cramps
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Headache
  • Fainting or syncope

Symptoms of Heat Stroke:
Heat stroke is a severe, life-threatening condition. Immediate medical attention is required if any of these symptoms occur:

  • High body temperature (typically above 104°F or 40°C)
  • Hot, red, and dry or moist skin
  • Rapid and strong pulse
  • Throbbing headache
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Confusion, altered mental state, or disorientation
  • Loss of consciousness

Stay Indoors:

  • Remain in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible, like our designated cooling centre.

Hydration:

  • Drink plenty of fluids, primarily water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages.

Clothing:

  • Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to reflect heat.

Limit Outdoor Activity:

  • If possible, reduce outdoor physical activities and schedule them for the coolest parts of the day.
  • Rest often in the shade if you must be outdoors.

Sun Protection:

  • Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for added protection.

Cooling Techniques:

  • Take cool showers or baths.
  • Use a wet cloth on your skin to help reduce body temperature.

Ventilation:

  • Use fans to circulate air, but note they’re less effective when the temperature is very high.

Check on Vulnerable Individuals:

  • Regularly check on older adults, young children, and those with medical conditions to ensure they are safe and hydrated.

Avoid Hot Meals:

  • Opt for light meals that require minimal cooking to avoid heating the house.