Environment Canada has issued a Heat Warning for our region, with extremely hot and humid weather expected to continue into Tuesday night. Daytime highs could reach 33–36°C, with humidex values between 42–46°C. Overnight temperatures will also remain high, providing little relief from the heat.
How Families Can Help Kids Stay Safe in the Heat
High heat and humidity can pose health risks, especially for children. Please help your child stay safe by:
Sending a full water bottle to school each day and reminding your child to drink often—even before they feel thirsty.
Dressing your child in lightweight, light-coloured clothing and a hat.
Packing extra snacks—eating regularly helps maintain energy in the heat.
Applying sunscreen in the morning and packing extra if needed.
Reminding your child to rest in shaded or cool areas during breaks and recess.
Talking about the signs of heat illness, including:
– Feeling weak or dizzy
– Nausea or vomiting
– Headache or muscle cramps
– Flushed or hot skin
If your child is feeling unwell, please keep them home and let the school know.
What Schools Are Doing to Support Students and Staff
All UGDSB schools have received guidance to help keep students safe and comfortable:
Cooling Centres:
Schools are to rotate students and staff through air-conditioned spaces or shady, cooler outdoor areas throughout the day to provide breaks from the heat. Schools are also ensuring that fans and air filters are working and that windows are shaded.
Recess:
Where possible, outdoor time is being limited, especially during the hottest parts of the day. In some cases, treed areas in school yards are cooler and may still be used. These decisions are made based on the conditions at each school site.
Field Trips:
All schools have been asked to have a heat plan for any trips. If a trip does not offer access to shade or cooling spaces, it may be cancelled or rescheduled.
Commencements and Year-End Celebrations:
Schools are making site-specific adjustments to ceremonies, such as shortening events or relocating parts of the celebration to the coolest spaces in the building.
We thank families for your support and understanding as we work together to keep students safe during this heat wave. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your child’s school directly.