The City of Richmond is urging residents to keep cool and stay safe during the current heatwave, which could push temperatures into the 30s through the weekend.
Environment Canada has issued heat warning for Metro Vancouver, including Richmond, warning of a “dangerous, long duration” heat wave that hit the region Friday and is expected to last until at least Tuesday. Daytime highs are forecasted to range from 29 to 38 degrees Celcius.
People heading outdoors during the heat wave are asked to plan carefully and hydrate well before heading outside and throughout the day.
The city said there are several options for people seeking relief from the heat:
- Stay cool by visiting one of Richmond's three spray parks located in Steveston, King George and Burkeville. The spray parks operate from 9:30am to 8:30pm, seven days a week.
- Explore nature under the shade and canopy of one of the City's wooded trail systems such as Richmond Nature Park, Shell Road Trail, Terra Nova Trails, and the Railway greenway.
- Take in a book or two in the air conditioned comfort of one of the City’s four libraries or view the work of local artists with a visit to the Richmond Art Gallery, currently featuring the work of three prominent BC ceramic artists.
- Enjoy the shade and great outdoors at one of four temporary shelters located in Paulik, Steveston, Dover and McLean parks. Starting Monday, June 28, the tents with picnic tables will offer respite from the heat until September 30.
- Keeping hydrated is essential, so the City has several water fountains installed across Richmond to provide clean drinking water.
- A map of these and other options is available at: richmond.ca/heat
Other tips for staying safe in the hot weather include:
- Drink plenty of fluids (stay hydrated), even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Keep cool by seeking out places that have air conditioning or shade, use a fan, wet towels, take cool showers/baths, and draw your blinds/keep your curtains closed or use window coverings to reduce inside heat.
- Stay out of hot cars. Never leave a child or a pet in a parked car, even for just a moment. If you see an animal in distress in a hot car, note the license plate, contact 911 and then the BC SPCA helpline at 1-855-622-7722.
- Check in on your loved ones – older family, friends, and neighbours who may be at risk of heat related illnesses. Those most at risk for heat related illness can include individuals with a disability, pregnant women, babies and young children, seniors, and anyone with underlying health conditions.
