In response to a heat warning issued by Environment Canada for this weekend, the City of Vancouver and the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation are taking measures to keep residents safe.
Under the city’s heat response plan when Environment Canada issues a heat warning a level one response is initiated. Under the first level cooling centres are activated, outdoor spaces are monitored for people suffering from heat-related illnesses. A hot weather support plan for tenants in non-market housing is also implemented which includes wellness checks and the provision of bottled water and fans.
This heat response plan involves staff from across the city including Vancouver Public Library, Vancouver Fire Rescue Services, and the Vancouver Police Department.
The city encourages residents to look out for those who may be especially vulnerable:
- Older adults, especially those living alone, and children younger than five years old
- People with pre-existing illnesses or taking certain medications
- People who are isolated or experiencing homelessness
- Outdoor workers
- People with addictions who may be more likely to be dehydrated as a side effect of substance use
- Anyone who isn’t acclimatized to our weather
- Anyone left in a hot environment like a closed car, or in direct sun.
Residents are also encouraged to visit community centres and libraries with air-conditioning, keep hydrated at over 200 permanent water fountains around town, as well as temporary water fountains, and misting stations.
Review of City’s heat response
Following the deaths of more than 800 people in BC during the recent extreme heat alert, the city announced in a recent release it is conducting a review to look at what can be added to its heat response measures. The first phase of this review has taken place with outcomes to be reported to Council in the coming weeks.
Preliminary recommendations have led to the city implementing the following changes:
Cooling centres
- Implement overnight hours during a level two extreme heat alert (Initiated when Vancouver Coastal Health issues an extreme heat alert)
- Update standards for operating hours and days
- Identify and communicate pet-friendly cooling centres
Access to drinking water
- Formalize bottled water donations through Food Bank for distribution to community
- Maintain bottled water at CoV Central Stores for rapid distribution
Communications
- Collaboration/advocacy with Public Health
- Update online and other materials to convey the seriousness of an extreme heat alert
Staff will also be analyzing more detailed data from BC Coroners as this is made available over the coming months.
