Image: M. Vanden Bosch / PML / File image of children cooling off at the Chilliwack Landing Centre.

By Fraser Valley Today Staff

Heat Concerns

Fraser Valley residents prepare for the hottest weekend of the year

Jul 6, 2024 | 6:00 AM

CHILLIWACK — Rising temperatures signal the arrival of summer’s first hot spell across the Fraser Valley. Environment Canada forecasts that high temperatures will exceed 30°C over the weekend.

While many will welcome the warm weather, others will seek ways to stay cool. Extreme heat plans have been established in Chilliwack, Abbotsford, and Mission. The plans, however, will not be activated until an Extreme Heat Event is declared. Cooling centres in the cities will be activated according to the BC Provincial Heat Alert and Response System (BC HARS) guidelines.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued weather alerts for several parts of the province including the Fraser Valley. At this time, forecasted temperatures remain below the Heat Warning criteria outlined in the BC HARS. Nevertheless, authorities advise the public to prepare for the unusually warm temperatures expected in the coming days.

Residents are encouraged to visit shopping centres, libraries, or community centres to escape the heat. Drinking plenty of water is essential to prevent dehydration, which becomes more common in hot weather. Seniors are particularly vulnerable to heat-related health issues, and civic officials suggest checking in regularly with elderly and housebound individuals.

For health-related questions about heat symptoms, residents are advised to call 8-1-1 to speak with a public health nurse. In cases of medical distress, calling 9-1-1 is recommended.

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E-Comm, the organization operating 9-1-1 in British Columbia, typically sees an increase in calls during the summer as people enjoy outdoor activities. Call-takers and dispatchers play a crucial role in public safety, and E-Comm reports that hundreds of accidental calls will be made this summer. Accidental calls can divert critical resources from genuine emergencies.

“The public can help us keep 9-1-1 free for emergencies by storing devices carefully to avoid accidental dials and staying on the line if you call in error,” said E-Comm 9-1-1’s Communications Manager Carly Paice.

Elevated heat also increases the risk of wildfires. To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.