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Heat Events and Heatwaves

The City of Pointe-Claire would like to remind citizens that a heatwave has been announced for today, Wednesday, July 5, and for tomorrow, Thursday, July 6. Temperatures are expected to return to their seasonal normal sometime during the day on Friday.

An extreme heatwave is defined as “three consecutive days when the average maximum temperature reaches 33°C and the average minimum temperature doesn’t drop below 20°C, or when the temperature doesn’t drop below 25°C for two consecutive nights”.2

It is important to be well prepared for this period in order to minimize the risks to your health and limit any discomfort caused by the heat. To do so, it is recommended to:

  • Drink water and stay hydrated;
  • Wear pale coloured, light clothing;
  • Avoid the outdoors and limit your physical effort and activity;
  • Spend time in a cool, preferably air-conditioned, place, such as a library;
  • Cool off by taking a cold shower, or by visiting a municipal pool, splash pad or body of water;
  • Check in on loved ones who live alone.

During this period, certain symptoms can indicate that you are experiencing heatstroke. Be vigilant! If you experience dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headaches, a change in your breathing, heart palpitations or fainting, or if you notice a change in your child’s behaviour, call Info-Santé at 811 right away.

City Services offered to residents

Over the next few days, we invite the public to take advantage of our outdoor swimming pools, splash pads or free swimming and lane swimming sessions at the Aquatic Centre. You can also visit our air-conditioned buildings, such as the library, the Olive-Urquhart Sports Centre and the Bob-Birnie Arena.

This Wednesday and Thursday, here are the opening hours of municipal facilities:

  • The splash pads at Augusta and Valois parks are open every day from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • The Aquatic Centre, which is also air-conditioned, is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. You can consult the schedules on the City’s website.
  • The Sports Centre, which is air-conditioned, is open from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Please consult the pool schedule on our website.
  • The Library is also open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Heat and outdoor workers

Do you work outside? The aforementioned tips also apply to you!

With an increased risk of heat stroke due to a longer exposure to heat, it is important to drink plenty of water and to stay hydrated throughout the day. Do not wait until you feel thirsty to drink water and be sure to follow the recommendations set by your employer and the CNESST to ensure your wellbeing during this period and limit the risks to your health.

Visit the Health Montreal website: https://santemontreal.qc.ca/en/public/fh/news/news/heat-waves/