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Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen offers water during heat wave

Supply stations set up throughout regional district
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HEAT WAVE Sunbathers enjoy time at Rotary Beach. Over the past week, temperatures have been well above normal and Summerland has shattered several previous daily high temperature records. Temperatures for this week have been forecast to exceed 40 C. The hottest temperature ever recorded in Summerland was 40.0 C, reached on July 16 and July 17, 1941. Typically the warmest days of the year in Summerland are Aug. 1 to 4, with an average maximum temperature of 27.8 C and an average minimum temperature of 14.5 C. (John Arendt - Summerland Review)

Stay safe during the heat wave

With the current heat wave expected to continue for several days, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen is reminding residents and visitors to stay safe by drinking plenty of water, staying cool and following the recommendations from Health Canada.

The recommendations include taking a break from the heat by spending a few hours in a cool place such as a swimming pool or public library, taking cool showers or baths until you feel refreshed, or using a fan to stay cool.

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Cold water will be available to help those in need stay hydrated. Regional district parks and recreation vehicles will have water available as staff work throughout various communities.

Cold water is also available at the Similkameen Recreation Centre, 311 9th St., Keremeos, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; the Okanagan Falls Recreation Centre, 1141 Cedar St., Okanagan Falls, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the regional district main office, 101 Martin St., Penticton, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Similkameen Community Pool is offering free swimming to help beat the heat during regular hours through to Friday, July 2.

The regional district advises residents to check on family, friends and neighbours especially vulnerable seniors and anyone who may not be able to escape the heat.

Never leave a family member — person or pet — inside a vehicle for any amount of time. This can be deadly during a heat wave.

Avoid walking dogs on hot pavement. Place your hand or bare foot on the pavement, if it is too hot for you after five seconds, it is likely too hot for your pet. You can learn more by visiting the B.C. SPCA website at spca.bc.ca.

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John Arendt

About the Author: John Arendt

John Arendt has worked as a journalist for more than 30 years. He has a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Journalism degree from Ryerson Polytechnical Institute.
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