Stay cool, stay safe.

Summer is here and so is the heat. Discover tips for how to stay safe, what to do during a heat warning, and more.

The Toronto city skyline with the sun rising on a hot day.

Stay cool during summer heat

As summer begins, the weather is starting to heat up. While we enjoy the warm weather, extreme heat can also impact our health and comfort. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and cool this summer.

Heating and cooling in your building

Toronto Community Housing (TCHC) switches each building from the heating system to the cooling system for the summer. If you are having issues with the temperature in your unit, contact the Client Care Centre.  

What happens during a heat warning?

Environment and Climate Change Canada issues heat warnings. They do this when they expect high temperatures for two or more days in a row. High temperatures are 31° Celsius or warmer during the day and 20° Celsius or warmer at night.

In some TCHC buildings, staff set up a cooling room when there is a heat warning. Staff will post a notice to let tenants know about cooling rooms in their building. If your building does not have a cooling room, you can find a cool space near you at toronto.ca/cool-space. You can also call 3-1-1. 

More tips to stay cool

  • Drink water and other fluids to stay hydrated. 
  • Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day. This will block the sun to help keep your unit cooler.
  • Do not leave children or pets in parked cars. 
  • Visit a community pool or a nearby splash pad across the city. There are also swimming pools at some TCHC properties that tenants can use. Find a list of their locations under the Common areas section of our website once they open for the 2025 season. 
  • Use fans or air conditioners to stay cool. Please remember, only floor-mounted air conditioners are allowed in your unit. Air conditioners in windows are not allowed. 
    • Do you receive Ontario Workers Assistance or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)? The City of Toronto may cover the cost of some medical devices, including air conditioners. This is offered directly through the City, so you will need to speak with your case worker to find out how to apply. For more details visit the City of Toronto website or speak to your case worker.

Want more resources and information? Check out the City of Toronto's tips for staying cool through the summer.