Quebec schools advised to take safety measures against heat wave
With temperatures set to jump into the 30s and humidex values set to push or exceed 40, schools in Quebec have been advised by the education minister to take safety measures on Monday to mitigate the heat effects
The extreme heat and humidity that is set to amplify across Ontario and Quebec has prompted the latter's education minister to urge school boards to execute safety measures for students and teachers this week, beginning on Monday.
With heat warnings blanketing a good portion of Central Canada, Quebec Education Minister Bernard Drainville has published a letter online from Stéphanie Vachon, assistant deputy minister, to school boards––advising them of the incoming heat and to implement safety measures, including shutdowns, if necessary, this week.
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"The network must take all measures to ensure the safety and well-being of students and school teams," said Drainville, in a post on X, translated to English.
He noted that several school service centres are already in the process of taking action.
In the letter, Vachon noted many school boards already relayed the recommendations from regional public health authorities to their respective administrators.
"In this context, we encourage you to implement all the preventive measures you deem necessary to ensure everyone’s safety. Depending on the situation, these measures may include the closure of one or more schools for the day of June 23," said Vachon, in the letter.
Parts of Ontario and Quebec will endure a multi-day stretch of extreme heat and humidity beginning Sunday, with temperatures climbing into the low- to mid-30s and humidex values rising toward the mid-40s.
Expansive alerts stretch from Denver, Colo., and New Orleans, La., to portions of Quebec as hazardous heat and humidity lock into place heading into the final full week of June.
Overnight lows will remain in the mid-20s, providing little relief for those living without reliable access to air conditioning.
The heat comes courtesy of a powerful ridge of high pressure developing over the eastern United States, nudging into Ontario and Quebec at the end of the weekend.
The impressive heat wave that needs to be taken seriously.
Hot weather safety tips
Drink plenty of water. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can be dehydrating.
Avoid direct sunlight, especially during peak hours and when the UV rating is high.
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
Use air conditioning when possible. If you do not have access to air conditioning, consider visiting a cooling centre, a shopping centre, or a public library.
Check on elderly relatives and other vulnerable neighbours.
Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.
If you experience symptoms of heat-related illnesses like dizziness, nausea, or confusion, seek medical attention.