Beat the heat in New Westminster right now: 5 ideas

As Metro Vancouver heads into yet another heat wave, New Westminster residents are facing a forecast of 30 C today (Monday, Aug. 8).

Remember to take care in the heat and look in on anyone who may be particularly vulnerable. And, in the meantime, if you — and the kids — are looking for some fun ways to cool down in the hot weather, then here's a revisit of our "beat the heat" list from the city's first summer heatwave.

If you're in need of some cooling off, check out these handy local options:

1. Reserve a swim at Moody Park or Hume Park pools

If you don't have a pool in your backyard or apartment complex, never fear: the city's two outdoor pools are both up and running, and as of this update there are a large number of spaces left at both pools for today and tomorrow.

Remember that you need to book a spot for both Hume Park and Moody Park pools this season; do so quickly at the city's recreation website. 

You can also just drop by Grimston Park to dip your feet into the popular wading pool. It's open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

2. Head to one of New Westminster's favourite ice cream shops

You can't go wrong with a frozen treat on a day like today.

So pack up the kids (or just yourself) and head to Rocky Point Ice Cream (100-500 Sixth Ave.), Anny's Dairy Bar (722 Sixth St.), Tre Galli Gelato (River Market, 810 Quayside Dr.) or Dairy Queen (708 Sixth Ave.) for the ice cream or gelato offering of your choice.

And don't forget to check out our list of some top milkshake spots in New West.

3. Seek the shade in New Westminster's urban greenspaces

Trees help to lower the temperature, shade you from the sun and provide a calming backdrop for a hot and busy Monday.

Go seek out your favourite park or trail to escape from the pavement — or check out our list of favourite places to hug a tree. (If you head to Glenbrook Ravine, odds are you'll find at least one Record reporter there seeking respite from the heat of the non-air-conditioned East End Bureau.)

4. Check out one of New Westminster's favourite spray parks

They're the perfect spot to cool off for kids and kids at heart — and with five spray parks around the city, there's bound to be one near you.

Check out the splash-pad fun at Queen's Park, Hume Park, Moody Park, Ryall Park or Sapperton Park. They're scheduled to run daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

(If you need directions, check out all the details at the city's parks and recreation website.)

5. Find an air-conditioned public space in New Westminster

When in doubt, seek air conditioning. Try the food court at Royal City Centre, the New Westminster Public Library's two branches (uptown at 716 Sixth Ave., or in the Queensborough Community Centre), or the coffee shop of your choice, or sit awhile at River Market (inside or outside) and enjoy some of the delightful foodie offerings while you're there.

Remember to check in on anyone who know who may be especially vulnerable to heat, including seniors and others with medical conditions. 

Check out this excellent advice from Fraser Health on how to stay cool, and how to keep your house cool, in the heat.

Follow Julie MacLellan on Twitter @juliemaclellan.
Email Julie, [email protected]