Seasonal Cooling Room

Convert an existing room into a cooling space during the summer months so that you and your neighbours can have a safe and comfortable place to spend time and keep cool on hot days. You might set up a portable air conditioner, fans, and seating in a lounge, party room, or any other shared space of your building. Invite neighbours or local community organizations to donate air conditioners, fans, and supplies. 

The cooling room can also be a place to share heat safety information and encourage people to check in on one another during periods of extreme heat.

Elements to consider:

Choosing a space: Identify the most accessible common room — consider proximity to elevators and washrooms, and confirm its availability with your condo board, tenants’ group, or property manager.

Cooling equipment and layout: Determine what’s needed to cool the space (portable AC units, fans, extension cords), and arrange seating to be comfortable and accessible, with room for mobility aids.

Operations: Establish opening hours and whether they’ll change during heat alerts. Assign volunteers or staff to handle daily upkeep — opening and closing, cleaning, and managing supplies — and clarify whether the property manager or landlord will cover basic costs and repairs, or whether grants are available.

Activities and supplies: Brainstorm programming residents would enjoy and identify community partners willing to host talks or discussions. Make a list of comfort supplies and explore whether neighbours, families, or local organizations can donate them.

Partnerships: Identify community organizations, libraries, or local groups that could contribute supplies or speakers to support the room.