Be Cool!

Hot weather is in the forecast again for southern BC, with temperatures anticipated to reach the low 30s. It’s important to stay cool and hydrated to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Where to Get Cool and/or Hydrated

Community Centres

Step inside for some respite from the sun (hours varied)
Click to see a list of community centres

Greater Victoria Public Libraries
www.gvpl.ca/branches-hours

All 12 library branches welcome you inside (see hours/locations).

Our Place Society
919 Pandora Ave.

Water available
Drop-in centre is open 6:30am-9pm daily and the covered courtyard has plenty of shade
Accepting donations of water/Gatorade, sunscreen, sunglasse

Royal Athletic Park
1014 Caledonia Ave.

Misting stations open to the public:
Thursday, August 12, 5-8 p.m.
Friday, August 13, 5-8 p.m.
Saturday, August 14, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Sunday, August 15, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Salvation Army ARC
525 Johnston St.

Water available

Victoria Cool Aid Society – Rock Bay Landing
535 Ellice St.

Water available
Hygiene area open for cool showers from 12:30-3:30pm
Also accepting donations of sunscreen and sunglasses for distribution at 101-749 Pandora Ave.

The Watering Garden at Beacon Hill Park
Simcoe & Douglas

Open 8am to dusk

In the Community

AVI Outreach: Water, electrolytes, sunscreen and hats distributed from the outreach van, 1-7pm, throughout Victoria.
Encampment Outreach: In addition to their usual outreach activities, the “orange backpacks” will have water and can provide clinical supports.
Harbour staff: As able, they will walk the 900 block of Pandora with water.
PEERS: The outreach van will be running every evening as usual and will have water and snacks. Water and snacks will also be available at:
- Howard Johnson, 310 Gorge Road East: 10am-5pm
- Capital City Centre Hotel, 1961 Douglas Street: 9am-4pm
SOLID Outreach: In addition to their usual outreach services, SOLID will have water available at 1056 North Park Street.
Bylaw: Bylaw officers will have water available for any who need it.

Take Care of Yourself

Stay hydrated, but make sure you’re including electrolytes – add Gatorade/PowerAde where possible – and avoid caffeine, alcohol, and excessive sugar
Have a salty snack to replenish sodium
Protect yourself with sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen – minimum SPF 30
Use an umbrella as a parasol
Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing
Find shade or a breeze near the water – avoid being in the direct sun for long periods of time
Mist your clothing with cool water if you have a fan to help cool hot air
Be mindful of the health and safety of those around you – friends, family or strangers in distress.
Medical questions? Call 8-1-1

Watch for Symptoms

Never leave children or pets alone in a parked vehicle.

More severe symptoms – including high fever, hallucinations, seizures and unconsciousness – require urgent medical attention. Call 911, move to a cool place, and cool the person with water and fanning.