The municipal initiative aims to provide safe and cool spaces for citizens in the face of potential heatwaves. These points are distributed across various areas of the city to facilitate access for everyone.
The indoor facilities designated as shelters include the Creu de la Mà Civic Center, the Joaquim Xirau Civic Center, the Fages de Climent Library, the headquarters of the Vilatenim Municipal Council, and the Empordà Museum. These spaces combine their usual use with the function of protection against high temperatures.
Regarding outdoor spaces, urban parks, gardens, and squares with shaded areas or ornamental fountains have been designated. Among them are Parc Bosc, Parc de les Aigües, Jardins Puig Pujades, the Font Lluminosa in Plaça de l'Ernest Vila, Plaça de la Palmera, Plaça de l’Estació, Plaça Josep Tarradellas, Jardins Enric Morera, and Plaça Vila d’Ordis, where work is being finalized.
Additionally, prevention measures previously implemented will be maintained, such as the installation of hydration points on La Rambla and in the Plaça de l’Ajuntament, which complement the existing public drinking fountains throughout the city.
The indoor shelters will have adapted hours. The Creu de la Mà Civic Center will be open in July from Monday to Friday, with morning and afternoon hours, and in August from 9 AM to 2 PM (except holidays). The Joaquim Xirau Civic Center will be available Monday to Friday, with extended hours on Wednesdays. The Fages de Climent Library will offer services Monday to Friday with morning and afternoon hours. The headquarters of the Vilatenim Municipal Council will be open Monday to Friday, with a planned closure from July 6th to 24th. The Empordà Museum will have hours from Tuesday to Sunday.
These spaces are specifically designed to accommodate vulnerable populations, such as infants, the elderly, or individuals with chronic illnesses, offering an environment with temperatures around 27 degrees Celsius, free water, and safety conditions. The City Council reminds the public that these are public spaces that combine their regular use with the function of shelter.
