Rising temperatures this week and another heat warning have opened up cooling stations around the community once again.

The Pason Centennial Arenas and the Okotoks Recreation Centre are open and available to give residents a chance to cool off during this week’s forecasted heat wave.

The spaces are available during regular business hours from July 27 to 31.

They have also extended the hours for the Okotoks Spray Park. It will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Thursday, July 28 to Sunday, July 31.

The town also shared tips to stay cool in your homes and on the go.

  • Avoid working or exercising intensely in the heat or humidity. If it cannot be avoided, be sure to take regular breaks, drink lots of water, maintain salt levels in your body and avoid high-protein foods.
  • Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle, especially in direct sunlight.
  • Hydrate to protect yourself from heat‐related illness.
  • Wear loose-fitting clothes, a brimmed hat and UVA and UVB-protected sunglasses. Wear sunscreen, and reapply regularly.
  • Check up on your family or friends who are alone and do not have air conditioning.
  • If your home is too hot or uncomfortable, take cool showers or baths or go to an air-conditioned public space, like Pason Centennial Arenas or the Okotoks Recreation Centre.
  • Learn more about cooling your home and find energy efficiency tools and tips the Town has available for residents at okotoks.ca/energy.
  • Heat-related illnesses can be fatal. Seniors, infants, those that live alone and those who have health conditions can be at risk. Reach out to anyone in your circle who might need assistance or extra support.

Pets are also vulnerable. Call 911 if you see an animal left in a hot parked vehicle. Look out for your pets; watch for hot surfaces that might hurt to walk on, and ensure they always have plenty of water.