Cities adapt to extreme heat: celebrating local leadership

This series of case studies discusses how local governments in Canada are adapting to extreme heat and the increasing risk of extreme events due to climate change. Each case study includes comments from an individual working within a local government whose responsibilities include the development and implementation of actions to address extreme heat risks.

This report helps to raise awareness of health risks from extreme heat, offers examples of heat-health adaptation and is intended to spur action to prepare Canadians for the impacts of climate change. The first 10 cases provide examples of communities that have developed a Heat Alert and Response System and the final 10 case studies provide local examples of preventative actions to reduce exposure to heat. Lessons learned include the following:

• Many communities are taking action now;
• A culture of prevention is the trigger for action;
• There is great value in existing networks and partnerships;
• Evaluation and continuous innovation is essential;
• Focus preparedness on the most vulnerable;
• Invest in prevention to reduce the risk of loss;
• National and provincial leadership supports local preparedness.