Water stations being installed to help Calgarians beat the heat
The City of Calgary is installing six temporary water stations in areas that receive high pedestrian traffic to help people and pets beat the heat this summer.
Designed with water-wise functionality and accessibility in mind, each water station includes a drinking fountain, water bottle filling station, a pet water fountain, and overhead misting. Activated with a push-button, each feature automatically turns off after a few seconds, minimizing overall water use. The stations will be attached to fire hydrants for the water supply.
“We want to ensure people can safely enjoy summer in Calgary,” says Mayor Gondek. “The stations will provide access to water in areas that typically receive high foot traffic to help residents, visitors and four-legged friends stay hydrated and cool when the temperature rises.”
The first station is located on the sidewalk along Riverfront Avenue, just west of the 4th Avenue overpass. The remaining five stations will be installed in the coming days, and will remain in place, weather-permitting, until mid-September.
The water stations will be installed at the following locations (the sixth location will be confirmed shortly):
· 418 Riverfront Ave SE (west of Reconciliation Bridge)
· 898 16 Ave SW (near Tomkins Park)
·1220 9 Ave SW (south side of Shaw Millennium Park)
· 688 5 St. SW (near the provincial Court House)
· 800 1 St. SW (near the Hudson Bay Building downtown)
“We are testing out six water stations as part of a pilot to understand the effectiveness of the locations and usage,” explains Coby Duerr, Deputy Chief of Emergency Management Operations for The City of Calgary. “Drinking water and misting yourself can help bring your core body temperature down, which can help prevent dangerous heat-related illnesses during high temperatures.”
Due to supply chain issues during the manufacturing process, the stations were not able to be deployed earlier this summer.
Tips to stay safe during extreme heat:
· Calgarians are reminded to avoid working or exercising intensely during heat events wherever possible, and to take breaks indoors or in the shade. Dress for the weather by wearing loose fitting clothes, a brimmed hat and UVA and UVB protected sunglasses.
· Pay attention to weather forecasts, wear sunscreen and never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
· If someone in your life is more vulnerable to the dangers of heat (elderly, infants, people who live alone or with health concerns), make sure you check on them regularly this summer
·The City reminds residents that heat stroke is a medical emergency. If you experience any symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately.
More tips and resources are available at Calgary.ca/heat, including a map that shows places to help Calgarians cool down during extreme heat.
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