It's important to stay hydrated when temperatures skyrocket. We’ve installed several hydration stations with clean drinking water, to help beat extreme heat.
These stations feature a bottle-filling spout that can be accessed 24 hours a day.
“Being exposed to heat can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and even death. Providing access to clean drinking water is a key part of our heat response planning,” said Mike Olczyk, the City’s Emergency Management Coordinator.
“You should not wait until you’re thirsty to get some water.”
First used in 2022, Olczyk said the locations were chosen based on need and past experience.
“We work closely with our community partners to find suitable locations,” he said. “We know some of our residents, particularly our unsheltered population, may find it harder to access clean water, and the hydration stations help meet that critical need.”
The hydration stations are connected to fire hydrants for a continuous supply of clean drinking water.
Anyone can use the stations. You can find them at:
- 469 Selkirk Ave. (The Bell Tower)
- Southwest corner of Stella Avenue and Main Street (near Mount Carmel Clinic)
- Northeast corner of Princess Street and Henry Avenue (near Siloam Mission)
- Southeast corner of Roslyn Road and Osborne Street
- 369 Furby St. (near Agape Table)
- Southeast corner of Maryland Street and Ellice Avenue (near Spence Neighbourhood Association)
- 190 Disraeli Fwy (near N'Dinawemak)
- 406 Edmonton Street (Central Park near Knox United Church)
- 185 Young St. (Broadway Neighbourhood Centre)
They will be removed before temperatures dip into freezing.
Everyone is susceptible to the dangers of heat. Children, older adults, and people with medical conditions are particularly vulnerable, as is anyone exerting themselves in hot weather.
Besides drinking plenty of water, you can combat heat stress by staying in the shade, wearing a hat and loose-fitting clothing, limiting alcohol consumption, and planning activities at cooler times of the day. It’s also a good idea to check on older loved ones or those with medical conditions. You should never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles or direct sunlight.
If you or someone you know is showing symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, call 9-1-1.
Originally posted on July 28, 2022