Canada Day in the Park proceeds with heat safety measures

The City of Wrenford implemented extra heat safety measures for the Canada Day in the Park celebration at Centennial Gardens on July 1. The event went ahead as planned, and we want to share these safety steps with residents for all summer gatherings.

When the weather gets hot, both indoor and outdoor temperatures can rise quickly. Extreme heat can cause illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. We encourage you to drink plenty of water, stay in the shade, and take breaks if you feel dizzy or too warm. If you live in an area without air conditioning, or if indoor temperatures get too high, visit a cooling centre. You can find air-conditioned public spaces at most community centres, libraries, and the Wrenford Public Library — Main Branch.

Checking on people can be life-saving. Some residents are at greater risk during hot weather, including older adults, people who live alone, and those with chronic health conditions. We all have a role to play. Plan to check on your neighbours and friends multiple times a day, especially in the afternoon when it is hottest.

"Our priority is making sure everyone can enjoy the long weekend safely," says Fiona Gallagher, General Manager of Community Services. "We have staff on site at Centennial Gardens to hand out water and direct people to cooling areas, and we are coordinating with Tamsin Valley Public Health to share real-time air quality updates."

Wildfire smoke can also affect air quality this time of year. Everyone reacts to smoke differently. If you have asthma or other breathing conditions, you may need extra precautions. The City's Cleaner Air Space Programme keeps public buildings open with filtered air during smoky periods. You can also find free N95 respirator masks at community centres during high smoke warnings.

For families planning to enjoy the Tamsin River or Corvid Creek Ravine after the main event, please remember to watch your step near the water. Summer algae blooms are common in warm, slow-moving water. Algae can be harmful to people and pets. Avoid touching green or blue-green scums on the water surface. If your dog swims in areas where algae is visible, wash them off with clean water right away. Never let pets drink from the river or a lake. For more on local water safety, see Parks & Trails.

To stay informed during extreme weather, sign up for the Wrenford Emergency Alert Network. You can also download the Wrenford 311 app to get instant updates on city services.

For more information on how to prepare for hot weather and smoke, visit our Emergency preparedness and planning page. If you need help finding a cooling centre or have questions about heat safety, call 311 or visit Extreme weather and storm preparedness.