SASKATOON — The Saskatoon Emergency Management Organisation has implemented the Extreme Heat Emergency Response Plan starting on Sunday, June 11, and concluding on Wednesday, June 14, in preparation for higher-than-usual temperatures.
The primary objective of the response plan is to assist Saskatoon residents during the extreme heat conditions, with a particular focus on vulnerable individuals, including those experiencing homelessness.
Saskatoon's Extreme Heat Emergency Response Plan is a coordinated effort that grants residents access to designated cooling locations, outreach services, wellness checks, and water distribution during periods of extreme heat. Individuals and families facing heat-related distress can visit any designated area across the city.
Partner organizations are also distributing water to vulnerable residents and have access to misting tents, offering an additional means of cooling down.
Extreme heat poses significant health risks, ranging from dehydration and heat exhaustion to heat stroke and potentially fatal outcomes.
The dangers of excessive heat are amplified for individuals residing in homes without air conditioning or cooling mechanisms, older adults, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
To support those most vulnerable during this prolonged and extreme heat, residents are urged to check on their family, friends, and neighbours, share the "cool-down locations" poster, and immediately notify emergency services if they encounter someone in distress due to extreme heat. In case of an emergency, dial 999 without delay.
Other Considerations during extreme heat days:
Stay out of the river. While the South Saskatchewan River may seem enticing to seek respite from the heat, EMO reminds residents that the river is unpredictable and swimming in it is strictly prohibited. The river poses numerous hazards, including changing currents and an unstable riverbed.
Pet Well-being. On warm summer days, ensuring the safety and comfort of pets is paramount. Considerations include providing ample fresh water for pets to drink, monitoring signs of heat stress such as rapid panting, never leaving pets unattended in parked vehicles, and offering means of cooling down such as wading pools or damp towels. Please get in touch with your local veterinarian for further information on keeping pets safe this summer.
Working Safely. As the humidex rises, outdoor individuals are encouraged to take necessary precautions, including staying hydrated by consuming additional water, taking frequent breaks in shaded areas, and adapting work duties to prevent heat-related illnesses. Please refer to the Government of Saskatchewan's "Working Outdoors" page for safety tips and guidelines for employees working in hot conditions.
Saskatoon Transit Safe Bus. Program As always, Saskatoon Transit offers the Safe Bus Program, which aims to provide immediate shelter and access to emergency services for individuals of all ages. If you require assistance, safely flag down a bus or approach a parked bus. Transit operators can directly contact emergency services through the on-bus radio system, ensuring individuals in need have a safe place to wait.
Smart Yard and Garden Watering. During heat waves, water usage increases significantly. The City encourages residents to adopt water-wise practices by watering their lawns and trees early in the morning and refraining from doing so on windy days to minimize evaporation. Smart watering benefits the environment and helps save money during the hot summer months. Follow these quick lawn care tips to enhance water efficiency and adopt water-wise practices.
For more information regarding the Saskatoon Extreme Heat Emergency Response Plan and tips on staying safe during extreme heat, visit saskatoon.ca/heat.
