
City of Vancouver shares tips to beat the heat
With warmer weather in the forecast for Vancouver, the City is reminding residents to get prepared for climbing temperatures through the summer.
Although Environment Canada has not issued a heat warning for this weekend, a Special Weather Statement External website, opens in new tab for Metro Vancouver is in effect, meaning residents should be aware of how to support their health and take measures to cool down as needed.
How to stay cool
- Seek cooler air at community centres, public libraries or any other air-conditioned public space across the city, such as shopping malls, movie theatres or neighbourhood organizations. Visit or stay with family, friends or neighbours who have air conditioning.
- Stay hydrated. There are more than 200 permanent water fountains across Vancouver. Misting stations and additional drinking fountains are already operational.
- Dip or spritz! Second Beach and New Brighton outdoor pools are now open, together with City spray parks. Push-button misting stations are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Seek shade under trees. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, lightweight loose clothing and sunscreen. Avoid strenuous exercise and being in the sun during the hottest part of the day.
- Block the sun by closing curtains or blinds. Identify the coolest part of your home, make a cool kit, install a window air conditioner, or make low-cost home modifications prior to a heat event.
- Stay informed. Download the Alertable app to receive alerts during extreme heat emergencies with information on City of Vancouver services and resources.
Find places to stay cool or get the most up-to-date information by checking vancouver.ca/hotweather or the City’s social media channels (X External website, opens in new tab, Instagram External website, opens in new tab and Facebook External website, opens in new tab).
Be prepared for extreme heat events
Environment Canada will declare a Heat Warning when daytime and overnight temperatures reach specific thresholds External website, opens in new tab for consecutive days. We can expect one to three of these every summer.
To avoid illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, monitor temperatures inside your home, make a plan on where to seek cooler air, whether inside your home or a public space.
When a Heat Warning is in effect, cooling centres are activated at community centres and libraries with air conditioning across the city. Seating, water and access to washrooms are available at these locations. Residents do not need to register, pay or show identification to visit a cooling centre.
Checking on people can be lifesaving
Some people are more susceptible to heat than others. This includes older adults; people who live alone; people with chronic, underlying health conditions, including mental health conditions; and people with limited mobility and other disabilities.
We all have a role to play by supporting family, neighbours and friends during hot weather. Plan to regularly check on vulnerable people multiple times a day. For signs of heat-related illness, visit Health Link BC's page on heat-related Illness External website, opens in new tab.