City of Brussels shares map showing where you can refill your water bottle

As a scorching heatwave pushes temperatures up to 37°C, the city of Brussels has shared a map with a network of places where citizens can refill their water bottles.

It also reminds people where free water fountains are located around the city. The action is part of a raft of measures aimed at protecting the more vulnerable in society who face risk increased health problems during the scorching weather.

The establishments where water bottles can be refilled can be identified by the logo ‘Fill your water bottle here’.  “These Brussels establishments, driven by environmental awareness and committed to promoting access to this essential resource, are actively participating in this initiative,” the City says on its website.

Cooling down in a fountain

In addition to hydration, many of Brussels’ decorative fountains also serve as cooling play areas, reports Bruzz. Place Flagey and Place Reine Astrid both treat the water in their installations with chlorine.

But the large fountain in Cinquantenaire Park is strictly off limits for paddlers. “The water from this fountain, as with most fountains, is not treated to come into contact with the skin, which can pose a health risk,” explained Brussels Environment.

It also highlighted the risk to the public posed by technical elements such as pumps, pipes or grids below the water of many fountains. In addition, some structures are not designed to support the weight of several people, it added.

The agency recommends play fountains where paddling is allowed and refers the public to the Brussels.gardens site that lists the parks that offer cool shaded areas. “There are 140 drinking fountains all over the Brussels Region, 58 of which are in our parks,” concluded Brussels Environment.

Couleur Café in the shade this weekend

Meanwhile, Couleur Café is preparing to keep festivalgoers, artists and staff cool this weekend. With temperatures forecast to rise over 30°C, organisers are taking extra measures to stop people overheating.

Extra water points will be installed, along with atomisers, while the fire brigade will be deployed at the festival site and camping ground, where special installations create a humidifying water curtain.

Visitors can also easily obtain drinking water. “As always, water remains available everywhere," says spokesperson Dennis Corbesier. "We also offer a discount for half a litre of water, so that everyone can continue to drink enough."

Organisers also point out that the festival benefits from its location at the foot of the Atomium in Osseghem Park. “If we were on asphalt or gravel, it would feel a lot warmer," added Corbesier. “Here we are in a park environment with many trees and natural shade.”

According to Corbesier, about three-quarters of the festival site is under  trees. “Only at the Red Stage and part of the Green Stage is there more direct sun. There we advise visitors not to stand in the heat for too long.”

Photo: ©City of Brussels