In the summertime, the North Okanagan experiences higher higher temperatures and hotter days. Hot weather can pose a risk to health. When outdoor temperatures reach a certain threshold, Heat Warnings and Extreme Heat Emergencies are issued by the Province of British Columbia.
There are many steps you can take in advance to prepare for hot weather and periods of dangerous heat. The City’s Emergency Program is prepared to respond to Extreme Heat Emergencies in Vernon with the Activation of Cooling Centres.
Preparing for hot weather
BC Hydro AC Offer
Through the Portable AC Offer of the Energy Conservation Assistance Program (ECAP), BC Hydro offers portable air conditioners for FREE. Check if you are eligible, receive a recommendation from IH staff, and apply online.
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During an Extreme Heat Emergency
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke
Heat impacts some people more than others. People over 65, with health conditions, who use substances, are on certain medications, are pregnant, or young children may need extra care.
Neighbour Check-ins
During hot weather, arrange to check on vulnerable neighbours, friends, and family members several times a day, especially in the evening. Community members can help increase outreach to heat-vulnerable people who live outside of healthcare or community care settings and may not be connected to support services.
If you know someone in your neighbourhood who lives alone or who is elderly or disabled, create a plan to check on them during heat events.
Heat Events
Heat and pollution affect your body in different ways, and may compound the effects of both for some people. Overall, heat poses a greater risk than smoke for most people, so prioritize staying cool if needed.
What the City will do during an Extreme Heat Emergency
The City of Vernon works with community partners to ensure that residents are safe in the event of an Extreme Heat Emergency. Heat Warnings are declared using the Provincial Heat Alert and Response System (BC HARS) and issued by Environment Canada. Heat Warnings are issued when temperatures are forecasted to be above 35C for two consecutive days and overnight temperatures remain above 18C. An Extreme Heat Emergency may be declared when Heat Warning conditions substantively increase day over day for three or more consecutive days.
In the event of an Emergency Support Services activation for emergency weather events, information will be posted to the City website and social media, including the Emergency Alerts section and Notices. You may also receive emergency alerts via smartphone from the Government of BC.