Coquitlam shares heat-safety and cooling resources

City of Coquitlam is sharing heat-safety and cooling resources as temperatures rise, urging residents to prepare their homes and check in on people who may be more vulnerable during hot weather.

The city says prolonged heat can leave indoor spaces warm long after sunset, creating heightened risks for young children, older adults, people living alone and people with chronic health conditions. It encourages family, friends and neighbours to help older adults, especially those without air conditioning, make a safety plan.

Strata residents, councils and property managers can register for a July 29 webinar at noon hosted by the Condominium Home Owners Association of BC and the Zero Emissions Innovation Centre. The session will cover overheating risks and cooling options. Registration details are available at coquitlam.ca/EnergyUpgrades, and a Cooler Condos Guide is available for those unable to attend.

Strata councils can seek advice through the free Strata Energy Advisor program, part of ZEIC’s BC Retrofit Accelerator. Homeowners can use a free Clean BC Energy Coach or a certified Energy Advisor, while rental-building owners and managers can access Landlord BC’s Rental Apartment Retrofit Accelerator. BC Hydro is offering instant rebates on selected high-efficiency air conditioners and air purifiers until Aug. 21, 2026; people referred through regional health-authority programs may qualify for a free portable air conditioner.

Residents 65 and older can pick up heat-safety brochures at Dogwood and Glen Pine pavilions or consult coquitlam.ca/WarmWeather. The site lists outdoor pools, free spray parks and resources from the provincial government, Fraser Health and HealthLink BC. Coquitlam City Hall and recreation centres are available as cooled indoor public spaces during regular business hours.