Jul 15th, 2025

Beat the Heat

Article submitted by Ottawa’s Office of Emergency Management and Ottawa Public Health

As temperatures rise, it’s important to be prepared for extreme heat and potential power outages. Here are some tips to help:

Stay Informed:

• Download the WeatherCAN app to receive heat warnings and air quality alerts.
• Stay updated through local media and the City’s social media channels for important heat-related information and resources.
  
  Stay Cool:
• Limit outdoor activities, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
• Use air conditioning if available.
• If you don’t have an air conditioner where you live, use a fan to bring in cooler air from outside and try to spend time in an air-conditioned place for a few hours each day. Visit places to cool off in Ottawa, such as city recreation facilities, parks with shade, malls, or libraries.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Wear a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses when outside.
  
  Stay Hydrated:
• Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
  
  Plan for Power Outages:
• Keep an emergency kit ready with water, non-perishable food that does not require heating, a flashlight, extra batteries, or a portable charger.
• If you cannot shower, sponge often with cool, wet towels. Focus on cooling the back of the neck, under the arms, and the groin area.
• During a power outage, residents of apartment buildings on higher floors may not have access to running water.  Fill containers with water for drinking and your bathtub with water to flush the toilet.
• Listen to the radio or call 3-1-1 for instructions on where to cool off and/or emergency reception centres.

Check on family, friends, and neighbours, especially those who are more at risk in the heat and stay connected with a support network that can check on you as well. Ensure pets have access to plenty of water and a cool, shaded area to rest.

If you or someone else shows signs of heat-related illness (e.g., dizziness, nausea, headache), seek medical attention immediately.

Resources and Support:

• Visit Ottawa Public Health’s Extreme Heat and Humidity webpage for more tips.

• Call 2-1-1 for information about community resources, including shelters, food programs, and financial assistance with utilities.
• Call 3-1-1 to be referred to the best available shelter or to request assistance for someone who needs transportation to escape the heat.
• Call 8-1-1 for non-emergency medical advice.
• Call 9-1-1 for a medical emergency.