Warming and Cooling Centres

Richmond Hill has multiple facilities that are used for warming and cooling centres during extreme temperatures.

Warming Centres

The following Richmond Hill facilities are open daily to be used as a warming centre during extreme cold temperatures:

Community Centres

Arenas

Ed Sackfield Arena
Elgin Barrow Arena
Tom Graham Arena
Bond Lake Arena - Evenings and weekends only
Elvis Stojko Arena - Evenings and weekends only

In the event of extreme cold temperatures of -15 degrees Celsius or lower, York Region will declare a cold weather event.

During a cold weather event, if you are experiencing homelessness, please visit Emergency and Transitional Housing, contact the Emergency Housing Central Intake Line at 1-877-464-9675 ext. 76140.

Cooling Centres

During times of extreme heat, visit our facilities, pools, and splash pads to stay cool. Anyone can be impacted by extreme heat but those that are most vulnerable include older adults, infants and young children, people who work or exercise outdoors, and those with certain medical conditions. Please remember to check on friends, family and neighbours who may be at risk.

Designated Cooling Centres

Libraries

Pools and Splash Pads

Beat the heat at a pool. Check out our swimming schedule.
Stay cool at our splash pads (open between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.)

Safety Tips

It is important to keep in mind that extreme heat and humidity can cause serious health problems. Be sure to keep the following tips in mind in case of a heat event.

Symptoms of heat illness

Dizziness
Extreme thirst
Rapid breathing and heartbeat
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Weakness and confusion

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Stay cool

Stay indoors or in shaded areas in cool, well-ventilated areas
Wear light-coloured clothing to reflect the sun and a wide-brimmed hat or use an umbrella
Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight
Pay close attention to how you – and those around you – feel
Use a fan or stay in air conditioned facilities
Take cool showers or baths

Drink extra fluids

Drink plenty of water before feeling thirsty
Carry a reusable water bottle with you
Increase your fluid intake regardless of activity level

Reduce physical activity

Try to limit outdoor activities directly under the sun or plan to play in cooler parts of the day (generally early morning/late afternoon)
Reduce sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. and when the UV Index is reported to reach three (moderate) or higher
Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
Take breaks, in the shade if possible, to allow your body temperature to cool down

Additional Information

Please keep our Water Use Conservation By-law in mind.

For more information on heat warnings, please visit York.ca/ExtremeHeat or contact York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653 or TTY 1-866-512-6228.

City of Richmond Hill

Warming and Cooling Centres

Warming Centres

Cooling Centres

Safety Tips

Additional Information

Contact(s)