Staying Safe in Extreme Heat

With climate change intensifying, extreme heatwaves are becoming increasingly common – a trend that is expected to be exacerbated in the coming years and decades.

Here in the Vancouver area where DSRF is located, according to the City of Vancouver’s 2024-25 Climate Adaptation Strategy, by 2050 we can expect a significant increase in extremely hot days:

Temperatures will increase year-round, being 2.4°C warmer on average. The hottest summer days will become hotter, with three times as many days over 25°C and nine times as many over 30°C. Heatwaves will become more frequent (four times that in the past) and longer (from three to six days on average), with both warmer day and nighttime temperatures.

Heatwaves can be especially difficult for people with Down syndrome. Temperature regulation can be a challenge. Many individuals with Down syndrome sweat less than others, which can make the summer season more difficult – particularly during extreme heatwaves. Thyroid problems, which are common among those with Down syndrome, can impact body temperature, while a weakened interoceptive system can hinder the individual’s ability to sense whether their body is overheating.

For loved ones and caregivers of people with Down syndrome, it is critical that we be prepared with the knowledge and resources to support them through times of extreme heat.

Read: Staying Safe During a Heatwave: Tips for People with Down Syndrome and Their Caregivers

One of the most important steps we can take is to ensure that people with Down syndrome have access to adequate cooling in their homes. The province of British Columbia has a number of programs that families may be able to take advantage of.

If you are a current client of your regional health authority’s Home Care Program or Mental Health and Substance Use Program, you may be eligible for a free portable air conditioner (AC) through BC Hydro.

This offer includes:

1. One portable AC unit: Portable units are on wheels and are installed by connecting a flexible duct hose through an open window. They’re plugged into a standard wall electrical outlet.
2. A one-time installation: You’re responsible for ongoing maintenance, take-down and reinstallation.

There are no fees or shipping costs.

A portable AC unit is ideal for small, closed-in areas, like a bedroom. It can help create a safe cooling space during extreme heat events during the day and at night.

Click here to learn more and apply

Even better than an air conditioner is a heat pump. Contrary to the name, heat pumps provide both efficient heating and cooling, and they do so in an environmentally-friendly manner that helps combat climate change.

The Clean BC Better Homes Energy Savings Program provides rebates for heat pump installation and other energy saving measures based on income level. Based on your household income, you could receive up to $24,500 to cover the costs of heat pump installation, including electrical upgrades. The chart below indicates the current maximum qualifying income for each level (2025):  

Number of people living in your home (including adults and children)	Income Level 1	Income Level 2	Income Level 3
1 person	$47,007	$61,697	$99,891
2 persons	$58,522	$76,810	$124,358
3 persons	$71,945	$94,428	$152,884
4 persons	$87,350	$114,647	$185,620
5 persons	$99,072	$130,032	$210,528
6 persons	$111,735	$146,653	$237,438
7 or more persons	$124,402	$163,277	$264,353

Note:

• Combined pre-tax annual income of all adults in your home (excluding dependents)
• Home envelope rebates (for windows, doors, and insulation) are available under Income Levels 1 and 2. Heat pump rebates for fossil fuel switching can be accessed at any of the three Income Levels (1-3)

For more information, visit the Energy Savings Program website or contact them directly at betterhomesesp@clearesult.com (email) or 1-833-856-0333 (phone).

Search for additional rebates in your area