With the warning that people could die, the City of Vancouver is taking steps to ensure that everyone stays safe during this hot spell.
Environment Canada issued a heat warning on Tuesday for B.C.’s South Coast.
Dr. James Lu of Vancouver Coastal Health notes that everyone needs to take precautions in the summer heat, but the elderly, the young and those with chronic conditions are particularly at risk.
“Heat can kill,” he said. “People can die from heat, even in the Lower Mainland.”
Eight temporary water fountains have been set up throughout the city, and there are plans to install more before the end of day Wednesday.
The Vancouver Fire Department has installed temporary water fountains attached to fire hydrants. Water fountains can be found at the intersections of Commercial Drive and E. Broadway, E. Hastings St. and Heatley St., Commercial Drive and Venables St., and Granville St., Granville St. and W. 10th Ave.
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A number of cooling centres are also opening up in the city.
WATCH: An expected heat wave prompts warnings in Metro Vancouver
The Vancouver Public Library has turned 21 of its branches into places where residents can escape the heat.
There are also cooling centres at Britannia, Hillcrest, Kerrisdale, Mount Pleasant, Ray-Cam, Roundhouse, and West End community centres.
Misting stations, meanwhile, have been installed at four parks, and first responders say they will be stepping up patrols and providing vulnerable people with water and sunscreen. Pools and water parks will also be extending their hours.
WATCH: The heat is on across B.C.
Environment Canada said hot temperatures are expected to last into early next week.
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