What do I need to know?
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- Extreme heat forecast for the Fraser Valley Wed, Aug 11 – Sun, Aug 15
- UFV remains open — most buildings between 22-26 Celsius
- When on campus, COVID health and safety protocol must be followed
- Cool your work environment, close blinds and windows
Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the south coast of BC including the Fraser Valley. Significant warming will ramp up Wednesday and continue through Sunday. Daytime highs will range from 34 C to 38 C combined with humidex values reaching the high 30’s to possibly the low 40’s.
As with any extreme weather event, UFV expects to remain open unless buildings and workspaces become unsafe.
UFV Facilities Management has been monitoring building and office temperatures and adjusting HVAC systems accordingly. Most buildings will have temperatures ranging from 22-26 Celsius.
Faculty and staff may find it more comfortable to work on campus. When on campus you must take the required steps to ensure COVID health and safety protocols are followed including notifying your manager/supervisor.
When working on campus, please close blinds to avoid heating and keep closed when leaving at day’s end to prevent early morning heating. Windows should also remain closed to prevent hot air from entering air conditioned environments.
If you have concerns regarding office or classroom temperatures, contact Facilities management at facilitiesservicedesk@ufv.ca or 604-854-4542 (local 4542).
Heat stress can result in a range of problems, from skin rashes and light-headedness to convulsions and unconsciousness. Visit HealthLinkBC’s Beat the Heat site for tips on staying cool or to use the symptom checker.
Some individuals may be more susceptible to the effects of heat, especially in combination with poor external air quality. If you feel ill and are unable to work due to medical concerns, you are encouraged to inform your manager and seek medical attention.
Health during this heat wave:
- Drink plenty of water before you feel thirsty and stay in a cool place.
- Outdoor workers should take regularly scheduled breaks in a cool place.
- Where possible, modify work hours to only be outside during the coolest times of day (early morning and late in the evening).
- Watch for the symptoms of heat illness: dizziness/fainting; nausea/vomiting; rapid breathing and heartbeat; extreme thirst; decreased urination with unusually dark urine.
- Check on older family, friends, and neighbours. Make sure they are cool and are hydrating.
- Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.
To help keep home or office temperatures lower:
- Turn off lights, computers, and other heat-generating electronics at the end of the day.
- Close window blinds to block sun and heat from entering the room during the day.
- Set ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise to help create a cooling effect.
Please check UFV.ca for further updates during extreme weather.
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