SASKATOON — In anticipation of the expected scorching weather over the Canada Day weekend, all spray pads' operating hours in Saskatoon have been extended. From Friday, June 30, until Monday, July 3, all spray pads will be operational from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
This decision is crucial to the Saskatoon Emergency Management Organization's Extreme Heat Emergency Response Plan. The EMO has activated Level II action to ensure the well-being of the city's residents, particularly the vulnerable ones.
The city's EMO has implemented a comprehensive response plan to provide residents access to cooling facilities, wellness checks, water distribution, and other essential services during the extreme heat. Various locations throughout the city are available for individuals and families experiencing heat distress.
Addressing the risks posed by extreme heat is vital, as it can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, potentially resulting in fatalities. Consequently, several organizations will distribute water to keep vulnerable residents hydrated and offer access to misting tents for cooling down.
Individuals living in residences without air conditioning or unable to cool their homes, especially older adults with pre-existing health conditions, are at high risk of heat-related illnesses.
To support the most vulnerable during this intense and prolonged heat period, residents are encouraged to check on their family, friends, and neighbours, share information about cool-down locations, and promptly alert emergency services (911) if they notice anyone in distress.
Staying hydrated and calm is crucial if you plan to partake in outdoor festivities. Carry cool water with you, and drink ample water throughout the day, even before you feel thirsty. Limit physical activity during the hottest hours and find shade to rest in.
While the South Saskatchewan River might seem enticing for cooling off on hot days, the EMO reminds residents that swimming in the river is prohibited due to its unpredictable nature. The river poses numerous hazards, including shifting currents and an unstable bottom.
Ensuring the safety and comfort of your pets are of utmost importance on warm summer days by providing them with plenty of fresh water and monitoring them for signs of heat stress, such as rapid panting.
Never leave pets unattended in parked cars and offer them a means to cool down, such as a wading pool or damp towel. Please call your veterinarian for more information on keeping your pets safe this summer.
Those working outdoors are urged to take necessary precautions, including drinking extra water and taking more breaks from the sun, modifying work duties to prevent heat-related illnesses. Please visit the Government of Saskatchewan's Working Outdoors page for safety tips and guidelines for employees working in hot conditions.
Saskatoon Transit continues to provide the Safe Bus Program, designed to assist individuals of any age who require immediate shelter or need to contact emergency services. If you need help, please safely flag down a bus or go to a parked bus. Transit operators can directly contact emergency services through the on-bus radio system, providing a safe place for the person in need to wait.
During heatwaves, water usage typically increases. The city encourages residents to adopt water-wise practices, such as watering lawns and trees early in the morning and refraining from watering on windy days to minimize evaporation. By following these quick lawn care tips, you can be more efficient with water usage and promote water-wise practices, benefitting both the environment and your wallet.
For more information about the Saskatoon Extreme Heat Emergency Response Plan and tips on staying safe during extreme heat, visit saskatoon.ca/heat.
To find a list of spray pad locations, please visit saskatoon.ca/spraypads. Further information regarding the Saskatoon Extreme Heat Emergency Response Plan can be found at saskatoon.ca/heat.
