Heat Alert Response Pilot Project

Heat events or “heat waves” occur when weather conditions combine to create higher than normal temperature and/or humidity levels over a period of several days.

Heat affects the body’s ability to regulate its temperature and it can become overworked if exposed to heat for too long. This can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, other serious illnesses or even death.  While the health risks related to heat are higher for certain groups, such as older adults, young children and people with chronic conditions, everyone is potentially at risk. Fortunately, most heat-related illnesses can be prevented or treated if you are aware of the risks and symptoms and take action to protect yourself and others. 

For more information on "Heat and Your Health", please click here.

In order to lessen the potential health impacts of heat on residents of Manitoba, Manitoba Health has partnered with Health Canada (HC)’s Climate Change and Health Office on the development of Heat Alert Response Systems (HARS) in two pilot areas: Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and the southwest area of the Assiniboine Regional Health Authority.

The development of an effective HARS involves cooperation and communication between individuals, organizations and communities. In order to facilitate this process, engagement between the health, emergency social services, and emergency response sectors, as well as municipal governments in the pilot areas has been an essential aspect of the project.  Both pilot areas have engaged a range of community partners in developing the local HARS through stakeholder participation and consultation.

Other HARS activities have included the installation of Environmental Heat Monitoring Systems (devices that measure temperature, humidity, solar radiation and wind) in both pilot communities to gather more information (data) about heat levels.  A vulnerability assessment has also been conducted within each pilot area. 

It is anticipated that these activities will help to lessen the health impacts of extreme heat in the pilot communities and eventually throughout Manitoba, by facilitating the development and implementation of effective Heat Alert Response Systems within Manitoba.

Building on the work of the HARS projects, Manitoba Health is developing a provincial response plan for heat events.

Helpful Links and Resources

• Heat and Your Health
• It’s Your Health: Extreme Heat Events - Health Canada
• Climate Change and Health - Health Canada
• Health Links-Info Santé: 788-8200 (in Winnipeg) or toll-free 1-888-315-9257.

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For more information:

Environmental Health Public Health and Primary Health Care Manitoba Health 4th Floor - 300 Carlton St. Winnipeg MB  R3B 3M9 CANADA Phone: (204) 788-6735 Fax: (204) 948-2040