Heat wave: let’s all be extra thoughtful

We are experiencing the season’s first real heat wave in Montréal with temperatures above seasonal averages. Because homelessness gets no summer holidays, we thought we should remind you that people without a home or living in precarious circumstances, who are not always welcome in public places, also need protection from the heat.

As an organization that helps people experiencing homelessness, in order to overcome the challenges of this oppressive heat, we offer everyone who comes to our doors:

• Welcoming, air-conditioned areas, such as our Café Mission Keurig®
• Fresh water
• Showers
• Balanced meals
• Psychosocial support and more

If you see someone affected by the heat, offer them water and a public transit ticket to get to a shelter or cool area.

In a heat wave, people should

• Stay well hydrated (careful because alcohol dehydrates!)
• Wear light clothing
• Take cover under an umbrella, indoors, or wear a well-ventilated wide-brimmed hat
• Use sunscreen to protect yourself from ultraviolet rays
• Limit physical effort, especially in the middle of the day when it is hottest
• Drink lots of water (six to eight glasses of water per day for an adult)
• Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages
• Spend at least two hours a day in an air conditioned or cool place (library, mall, etc.)
• Take at least one refreshing shower or bath per day or dab skin several times a day with a wet towel

Read additional tips from Urgence Quebec

We encourage those in charge of public, commercial and other air-conditioned areas to be particularly lenient when the weather is this oppressive.

A short break in a cool area for someone experiencing homelessness or living in poor housing can go a long way.

Let’s be collectively responsible and remember that access to water and rest in a cool area is vital for ALL.

Together, we can make Montréal a city that cares about its most vulnerable residents. Your kindness helps us to achieve our mission.