Saskatoon Extreme Heat Emergency Response Plan activated

In anticipation of higher than normal temperatures this week, combined with the Air Quality Index, the Saskatoon Emergency Management Organization (EMO) will activate the Saskatoon Extreme Heat Emergency Response Plan from Monday, July 8 to Thursday, July 11 to support residents in Saskatoon, especially those vulnerable to the heat.

The Saskatoon Extreme Heat Emergency Response Plan is a coordinated response that provides residents with access to cooling locations, outreach services, wellness checks and water distribution during extreme heat. Individuals and families experiencing distress from the heat can visit any of the designated cool-down locations throughout the city. Partner organizations will also distribute water to vulnerable residents and have access to misting tents to provide another way to cool down.

Extreme Heat can cause serious negative health impacts ranging from dehydration and heat exhaustion to heat stroke and potentially death. Extreme heat can be especially dangerous for individuals who live in a residence without air conditioning or a way to cool the home, are older adults, and who also have re-existing health conditions. Residents can help those most vulnerable to this extreme and prolonged heat by checking on family, friends and neighbours, sharing the list of cool-down locations and by alerting emergency services if they see someone in distress due to the extreme heat.

In an emergency, call 911 immediately.

Other things to consider during days of extreme heat: 

River Safety

Although the South Saskatchewan River may provide a tempting option to cool down on hot days, EMO reminds residents that the river is unpredictable and swimming in the river is prohibited. The river has many hazards including changing currents and an unstable bottom.

Pet Wellness

On warm summer days, it’s important to keep your pets safe and comfortable. Considerations include:

• Ensuring your pet has plenty of fresh water to drink
• Monitoring your pet for signs of heat stress such as rapid panting
• Never leaving pets in parked cars for any amount of time
• Offering your pet a means to cool down such as a wading pool or damp towel

For more information on how to keep your pet safe this summer, contact your local veterinarian.

Working Safe

As the humidex rises, those who work outdoors are encouraged to take necessary actions including:

• Drink extra water,
• Increase breaks out of the sun
• Modify work duties to prevent heat illness

For safety tips and guidelines for employees working in hot conditions, visit the Government of Saskatchewan’s Working Outdoors page.

Transit Safe Bus Program

As always, Saskatoon Transit offers the Safe Bus Program designed to assist anyone, of any age, that needs immediate shelter or needs to contact emergency services. If you need help, simply and safely flag down a bus or go to a parked bus. Transit operators can contact emergency services directly through the on-bus radio system and will give the person in need a safe place to wait.

Smart Yard and Garden Watering

During heat waves, there is increased water usage. The City encourages residents to be water wise by watering your lawn and trees early in the morning and skip windy days to minimize evaporation. Smart watering helps the environment and can save you money during hot summer months. Follow these quick lawn care tips to be more efficient with your water and learn more ways to be water wise.

For more information about the Saskatoon Extreme Heat Emergency Response Plan and how to stay safe during extreme heat, visit saskatoon.ca/heat.