The Emergency Management Office (EMO) monitors weather conditions and activates heat warning protocols if temperatures are expected to reach at least 33°C during the day and 17°C at night for two consecutive days. Extreme Heat procedures are enacted for 3 or more consecutive days at the same temperatures or above, where there is limited cooling in the evening hours.
The EMO is currently focused on planning and outreach to our vulnerable populations, residents, property management companies, non-profits and faith-based organizations. Vulnerable individuals are encouraged to create a social communication network. This ensures that in the event of an emergency, they have friends, family and neighbours who can provide support. Through planning and preparation, we can be more resilient as these events continue to occur.
Stay Cool
Several City of New Westminster facilities have air conditioning and welcome you to visit if you need a place to cool down. These locations include:
- Century House - 620 Eighth Street | 604-519-1066
- Queensborough Community Centre - 920 Ewen Avenue | 604-525-7388
- New Westminster Public Library - 716 Sixth Avenue | 604-527-4660 No pets allowed at this location.
- Anvil Centre - 777 Columbia Street | 604-515-3830 No pets allowed at this location.
- təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre - 65 E Sixth Ave | 604-777-5100
Print this cooling venue poster to put up in your building.
Misting STATIONS
Misting stations are available across the city to help keep people cool and hydrated during the hot summer months. The blue posts feature a mister and bottle filler, and are a part of the City's cooling strategy. Misting stations are in operation until September.
Visit this page to learn more about where to find a misting station.
You can also stay cool by visiting a spray park, outdoor pool, or attend a drop-in activity. Visit newwestcity.ca/staycool for ideas.
Resources
City of New Westminster Information & Resources for Extreme Heat
- What to do in Extreme Heat
- Prepared BC - Extreme Heat Preparedness Guide
- Preparing Together for Extreme Heat
- How to Keep Cool
- DIY Air Cleaner Instructions
Health - Heat Related Information & Resources
- Fraser Health Extreme Heat - Recognizing the Signs Poster
- Fraser Health Sun & Heat Safety
- Health Canada - Staying Healthy in the Heat Fact Sheets
- Vancouver Coastal Health - Childcare Facilities and Heat
- Health Canada- Keep Children Cool! Protect your child from Extreme Heat
- Fraser Health - How to be a Heat-Healthy Business Leader
- Fraser Health - Summer Heat and Health: Recommended Actions for Owners and Managers or Rental and / or Strat Housing
- Fraser Health - Summer Heat Safety for Seniors and People with Medical Conditions
Air Conditioner Programs
Other Heat Related Information