City Facilities Offer Vulnerable Populations Relief from Heat During Summer Months

Surrey, BC –  The City of Surrey is advising the community that many of its civic facilities, including Surrey City Hall, community centres, arenas and Surrey Libraries locations, are available to people seeking relief from extreme heat and wildfire smoke during the summer months. The full list of facilities can be found here. There are also 59 water fountains available in Surrey Parks for public use. The full list can be found here.    

Prolonged exposure to extreme heat or smoke can trigger various symptoms and illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, burning eyes, and coughing or shortness of breath—especially in vulnerable populations, including:     

• Seniors and children younger than five years old

• People with pre-existing medical conditions  

• People who are isolated or experiencing homelessness  

• Outdoor workers  

• Anyone who isn’t acclimatized to the weather  

• Anyone exposed to direct sun for a long period of time  

The City is working with local homeless service providers and the Homeless Services Association of BC on a call for donations to help unsheltered populations against the potential harmful effects of extreme heat. Visit @_HSABC for more information. Through targeted communications, Surrey seniors will also be receiving information about heat safety, ahead of this week’s anticipated rising temperatures. 

For more information, visit the City of Surrey’s Summer Heat Safety Tips webpage.