The City of Welland has established cooling stations for residents in need of relief from the outdoors when a heat alert is in effect. Cooling stations will be opened for public use when a heat alert is in issued by the Government of Canada. Welland Transit washrooms are available to the public.

A heat alert is issued when the humidex is at least 40°C or higher for two consecutive days, or daily temperatures are expected to reach 31°C or higher for two consecutive days and overnight temperatures are at least 20°C or higher for two consecutive days.

It is recommended that residents take precautions during extreme heat and humidity episodes to keep family members safe. Seniors, young children, people with disabilities, and pets are highly vulnerable to extreme heat and humidity. Do not leave children or pets unattended in parked cars or areas susceptible to hot conditions.

Cooling Station and Public Pool times:

• East Main Street Transit Terminal, 160 East Main Street
• Monday to Friday, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Saturday, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Welland Community Centre, 145 Lincoln Street
• Open access until 9 p.m. Tuesday, July 19
• City outdoor swimming pools open from July 3 to August 27
• Monday to Sunday, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
• Friday to Sunday, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Splash pad hours
• 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Community members who are concerned about individuals who are homeless or are in need of sheltered can call 2-1-1 or visit: Niagara Assertive Street Outreach Team – Niagara Assertive Street Outreach Team | 211 Central South Region – Niagara

For more information on heat alerts, visit: Public Weather Alerts for Canada – Environment Canada