The Albury Wodonga Aquatic Facilities have partnered with AlburyCity and Wodonga Council to offer free pool entry during this week’s heatwave conditions.

The three outdoor pools will each offer a free day starting with Albury Swim Centre on Wednesday, January 16. This will be followed by WAVES on Thursday, January 17 and Lavington Swim Centre on Friday, January 18.

Entry to the Albury Swim Centre will include free water slide passes and the WAVES inflatable event on Thursday as per the Summer Calendar of Events will proceed as planned.

Albury Wodonga Aquatics Facilities manager Ben Tudhope said “It’s going to be a scorching few days, so we look forward to providing the community with free access to the seasonal aquatic facilities from Wednesday to Friday this week. Plan your visits to the three pools and beat the heat.”

AlburyCity Deputy Mayor Amanda Cohn said the free entry would provide relief to families.

“We’re expecting the temperature to soar to 45 degrees tomorrow and 44 on Friday so this is a great opportunity to help keep our community cool and most of all, safe, during these extreme conditions,” she said.

“It is important that our community have as many opportunities as possible to stay cool during this extended hot spell and we encourage people to use not only the pools but the libraries, The Cube Wodonga and shopping centres as ways to beat the heat,” Wodonga Mayor Cr Anna Speedie said.

There are simple things you can do to stay safe in the heat.

• Drink plenty of water – Take a bottle with you always.
• Hot cars kill – never leave kids, adults or pets in hot cars. The temperature inside a parked car can double within minutes.
• Keep cool – seek out air-conditioned buildings, draw your blinds, use a fan, take cool showers and dress in light and loose clothing made from natural fabrics.
• Plan ahead – schedule activities in the coolest part of the day and avoid exercising in the heat. If you must go out, wear a hat and sunscreen and take a bottle of water with you.
• Help others – look after those most at risk in the heat – your neighbour living alone, the elderly, the young, people with a medical condition and don’t forget your pets.

If you or anyone you know feels unwell on a hot day call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24, or call 000 in an emergency. For more information visit betterhealth.vic.gov.au/heat

Pet owners are urged to ensure their pets have shade and plenty of water during the heatwave period, check their pets on a regular basis and if possible, keep them inside in a cool place.

Wodonga Council offered a free entry day at the end of the summer holidays in 2016 but this is the first time the Albury facilities have offered the free entry.