The Barriere Curling Club is concerned about your health during our summer high heat days. Our cooling centre will be comfortable while you to engage in numerous physical and social activities with others.
The importance of staying cool is crucial to maintain both body and brain functions. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be life threatening, especially for the elderly, the young and those with health conditions. Staying cool helps your body to continue functioning, while becoming too hot for too long will stress your heart, brain and other organs. High temperatures will make it difficult to concentrate, to sleep and to be comfortable.
There are many actions you can take to remain healthy and strong during very hot weather. Wear light clothing, stay hydrated, limit strenuous activity, seek shade, monitor yourself and be aware of how you are feeling. Staying indoors in an environment that is cool is one of the best defenders you must remain healthy during the hot days of summer.
The Barriere Curling Rink is the local, prime site for your cooling needs. In our efforts to use the rink in the off-season and promote the facility as a multi-use facility the Cooling Centre is a perfect fit. We have a large accessible area with the added benefit of cool clean air.
The Government of Canada launched the New Horizons for Seniors Program for groups to invest in projects across Canada. This program is offered through Employment and Social Development Canada. A Cooling Centre met their specific criteria and priorities of supporting healthy aging and addressing social isolation.
The rink area of over 1,900 square feet and naturally cools to 18 Celsius and the lobby maintains at 21 Celsius. These temperatures fall well within the recommended guidelines for optimal comfort. The ice area will be used as a walking area with the centre area designated as a games area. Come on down to get your steps in or join in a friendly game of Bean Toss or Tic-Tac-Toe. The activity area and washrooms are completely wheelchair accessible.
Once you have enjoyed your walk or game come relax in the lobby area. Enjoy the many resources available, puzzles, books, games, cribbage, or work on your laptop. WIFI is available. We will be open Monday to Friday, 10:30-4:30 starting June 16th to August 15th. If you wish to volunteer as a co-ordinator, please contact Bernice Randrup at 250-320-0745. Join us to make the Barriere Curling Rink the relaxing, social gathering hub for all. Hope to see you there.
Bernice Randrup is a director with the Barriere Curling Club.
