CAMH Heat Wave Response: Information for Patients and Families PDF
Understanding the risk factors involved during a heat wave is the first step to protecting yourselves from the effects of extreme heat. Download the PDF.  

CAMH Heat Wave Response Clinical Guidance Document PDF
CAMH has created a clinical guideline document for clinicians that includes a self-assessment module, and an action plan for patients who may be vulnerable to extreme heat conditions. Download the PDF.

Heat Wave Quick Guide for Patients & Families PDF

A one-page summary for patients and families based on the full CAMH Heat Wave Response for Patients and Families 

Translated versions:

• French 
• Iranian Persian (Farsi) 
• Italian 
• Portuguese
• Russian
• Simplified Chinese 
• Spanish 
• Tagalog 
• Tamil   
• Ukrainian 
• Urdu  

A one-page summary for clinicians based on the full CAMH Heat Wave Guide for Clinicians 

Translated versions:    

• French 
• Iranian Persian (Farsi) 
• Italian  
• Portuguese 
• Russian 
• Simplified Chinese 
• Spanish 
• Tagalog 
• Tamil 
• Ukrainian 
• Urdu  

Access Support for Air Conditioning Units 

Air conditioning helps maintain safe indoor temperatures and reduce humidity. 

You may be eligible for financial support for an air conditioning unit if you are receiving: 

• Ontario Works (OW)
• Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
• Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD)  
   
  A letter of support from a physician or nurse practitioner is required, confirming that a cooling device is medically necessary as part of a treatment plan to support health and safety. Ask your provider if you need AC. 

Learn more about eligibility criteria and how to apply.
 
For physicians and nurse practitioners, a screening guide and letter template are available here.

Find Cooling Centres in Your Area 

Cooling centres provide safe, air-conditioned spaces where people can go during extreme heat to stay cool and reduce the risk of heat-related illness. 

Public cooling centres may include libraries, community centres, and other public buildings.  

Availability varies by municipality. Individuals are encouraged to check their local public health unit or city website to find a cooling centre near them. 

Get cooling centre information for the City of Toronto.
 

Heat Wave Alerts and Warnings 
Extreme heat warnings are issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada in partnership with public health authorities when high temperatures and humidity may pose health risks. 

To check for active heat warnings and alerts in your area 

• Weather Alerts for the City of Toronto 
  
• Environment Canada weather alerts 

Watch local weather broadest or news stations  

Sign up for direct alerts 

• Receive email alerts from EC Alert me   
• Download the free WeatherCAN mobile app    

Heat and Medication Management 

Some medications can increase a person's risk of heat-related illness or response to heat. If you are unsure about your medications, speak with your pharmacist or healthcare provider.  

This resource is directed for pharmacists and healthcare providers outlining considerations of medications that may be affected by heat, developed by the Canadian Pharmacists Association and the Canadian Association of Pharmacy for the Environment. Download the PDF.