Climate Emergency Preparedness

Extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and severe as the climate changes. Extreme heat events occur when temperatures reach dangerous levels.

During these events individuals are at higher risk of experiencing heat-related illness, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat-related illness can range from mild to severe.

Heat exhaustion may cause muscle cramps, heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. Heat stroke may cause high body temperature, confusion, and fainting, and can be fatal without immediate medical attention.

It is important to remember that people experience extreme heat events differently. Some residents are more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat. This includes:

• Older people, infants, young children, people who are pregnant
• People with chronic diseases (schizophrenia, substance use disorder, epilepsy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, depression, asthma, mood and anxiety disorders, and diabetes)
• People who take certain medications or substances
• People living alone
• People facing communication or language barriers

Renters are more vulnerable because they may face barriers to getting prepared, as they have a limited ability to make changes to their homes in response to hazards. Renters can take action in a variety of no-cost or low-cost ways.

It’s easier to stay safe and take action when you are prepared. Here are some steps you can take to be prepared for extreme heat events:

• Prepare yourself and your household by making a plan and gathering supplies needed for an emergency kit
• Know the signs of heat-related illness and how to respond accordingly
• If you don’t have an air conditioner, familiarize yourself with air-conditioned places nearby; in the UNA, Wesbrook Community Centre has air-conditioned spaces.
• Know how to use fans and when not to use them
• Sign up for local emergency alerts using UBC Alert and/or Metro Vancouver’s Alertable. Find out more here.

• In response to extreme heat events, Wesbrook Community Centre operates as a cooling centre during its regular hours. See location and hours here.
• Splash pad located on the south side of the Wesbrook Community Centre is open every day from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. during warm seasons.

Below are resources with more information on extreme heat:

• Extreme heat fact sheet (plus other hazards) in different languages here
• How to adapt your home to extreme heat events
• How to prepare an extreme heat kit
• BC Hydro’s free portable air conditioner program for qualified individuals, or deals on air conditioners for all customers
• Climate change and related hazards can have mental health impacts; for more information and resources, see the Government of Canada’s fact sheet here