Summertime is around the corner and with it comes the risk of preventable heat-related illnesses. The City of Ottawa, Ottawa Public Health (OPH), and many partners share heat safety information and provide supports so residents can stay safe and enjoy summer. OPH publishes an interactive map of places to cool off in Ottawa, including parks, pools, splash pads and libraries. Many air-conditioned City facilities are open during the hottest part of the day.
Visit the OPH Extreme Heat and Humidity website for info and resources including:
- The Beat the Heat factsheet in multiple languages,
- Infographics on cost-effective home, apartment, and condo heat protection.
- Guidance on staying safe during power outages in a heat waves.
- The “Find Your Way Community Resource Guide” with contacts for shelters and drop-in centres.
What are the risks of hot weather?
Hot and humid weather can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and death. While everyone is affected by extreme heat, some people are more quickly affected by heat - particularly young children, older adults (65+), people experiencing homelessness, people who exercise or work outside, and people with certain medical conditions. Keeping indoor temperatures at or below 26°C (79°F) helps reduce health risks.
During heat waves, checking in on people who may be at greater risk is important.
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issues heat warnings when the temperature or humidex is expected to stay too hot for at least two days in a row, with warm temperatures overnight. Download the WeatherCAN app to access forecasts, current conditions, and get directly notified of weather warnings and follow OPH on social media for information on public health topics including extreme heat and humidity.
Call for advice and support during hot weather:
- 9-1-1 provides assistance for any medical emergency such as heat stroke.
- 2-1-1 connects people to cooling locations and community supports - https://www.champlainhealthline.ca/listservices.aspx?id=10721
- 3-1-1 provides information on City services and shelter access
