As we endure another heat wave in the Comox Valley, let鈥檚 not forget about others.

It takes very little time and effort to check in on your neighbours to make sure they are safe. Do they have air conditioning? Is it working? Is there anything you can do to help them?

In these times it is especially important to make sure others are safeguarded.

Lest we forget that the heat dome of 2021 took the lives of 619 people in our province.

According to the federal government, extreme heat is the leading cause of illness and death from weather-related hazards in Canada. With climate change, it is predicted that the frequency, severity and duration of extreme heat events will continue to increase in Canada. We are experiencing that, and we can help prevent tragedy by ensuring those around us are safe this week.

It expands beyond your neighbours. If you are able, have a case of water with you in the car, and offer a bottle or two to someone you see who is struggling.

Now is the time for compassion.

If you are struggling, keep in mind the various cooling centres the Comox Valley Regional District has opened this week.

The City of Courtenay has opened the second floor of the Filberg Centre (411 Anderton Ave. Monday to Friday, noon-8 p.m.) as an option, as well as the lobby area and arena bleachers at the Comox Valley Sports Centre (3001 Vanier Dr. open Monday-Friday, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.) .

In Comox, the Community Centre (1855 Noel Ave. Monday to Friday, 6 a.m.-9:30 p.m.) is available, and right across the street, the fire hall has its misting stations going.

The Cumberland Rec Centre (2665 Dunsmuir Ave.) offers villagers some respite from the heat.

All three municipal libraries are also available for use as cooling centres, and all the usual spray parks and pools are open.

Stay safe, Comox Valley.