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Top 10 summer risks for Canadian public entities: Essential mitigation strategies for 2025

Discover the top 10 summer risks facing Canadian public entities in 2025 and learn effective mitigation strategies to ensure community safety and preparedness.

Public entities face a range of risks during the summer months that can significantly impact their operations and the communities they serve. The ongoing impacts of climate change are exacerbating these challenges, leading to more frequent and severe weather events, including heat waves, droughts, and wildfires. Additionally, the increased recreational use of public spaces in the summer, alongside water safety hazards and a host of other challenges, heighten the need for proactive planning and comprehensive risk management.

Key risk considerations

The following guidance highlights key areas of consideration for Canadian public entities in the summer, as well as effective mitigation measures. By implementing comprehensive plans and fostering community awareness, public organizations can better protect the wellbeing of their residents and infrastructure during this time of year. The following should not be seen as an exhaustive list and should be used in conjunction with internal policies and procedures, as well as in compliance with local laws and regulations.

Extreme heat events can pose significant risks to public health and safety, potentially affecting outdoor workers, vulnerable populations including children and seniors, and even equipment used in various municipal operations.

Mitigation strategies

Public entities may consider the following risk mitigation strategies:

Heat response plans: Comprehensive strategies designed to address extreme heat events and allocate resources effectively during heat waves.
Hydration stations: Designated areas equipped with water supplies to encourage hydration and mitigate heat-related illnesses in public spaces.
Modified work schedules: Adjusted work hours for outdoor workers to minimize exposure to extreme heat, potentially enhancing employee safety and productivity.
Public cooling centres: Facilities opened during heat waves to provide relief and shelter for individuals seeking respite from high temperatures.
Prioritized outreach: Targeted communication efforts for at-risk populations, such as children and seniors, to promote equitable access to heat relief resources and support services.

Wildfires and the resulting smoke exposure present significant risks to public entities, potentially impacting community health and safety, infrastructure, and the environment. Smoke from wildfires contains harmful pollutants that can severely affect respiratory health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

Wildfires can also disrupt essential services, including utilities, transportation, and emergency response systems, complicating recovery efforts and straining municipal resources.

Mitigation strategies

Public entities may consider the following risk mitigation strategies:

Emergency response coordination: Establishing a collaborative framework among local agencies to support a swift and effective response to wildfire incidents and smoke exposure.
Evacuation planning: Developing clear evacuation routes and procedures to maintain the safety of residents in the event of a wildfire, minimizing confusion and risk during emergencies.
Air filtration: Implementing air filtration systems in public buildings and shelters to protect vulnerable populations from harmful smoke exposure during wildfire events.
Real-time air quality monitoring: Utilizing technology to monitor air quality and provide timely updates to the community about hazardous conditions caused by wildfire smoke.
Public alert systems: Establishing robust communication channels to disseminate alerts and information regarding wildfires and air quality, helping residents stay informed and prepared.

Drought conditions can significantly strain municipal water supplies, leading to restrictions that impact landscaping, agriculture, and fire suppression capabilities, ultimately threatening community resilience and safety.

Mitigation strategies

Public entities may consider the following risk mitigation strategies:

Public awareness campaigns: Launching educational initiatives to inform residents about the importance of water conservation and the impact of drought on community resources.
Water use bylaws: Implementing regulations that limit non-essential water use during drought conditions, encouraging responsible consumption and protecting vital water supplies.
Alternative supply planning: Developing strategies to identify and secure alternative water sources, such as recycled water systems, to support a reliable supply during periods of drought.

Storm and flood events pose significant risks to public safety and infrastructure, potentially harming people, damaging property, parks, and roads, or leading to sewer backups that can disrupt essential services.

Mitigation strategies

Public entities may consider the following risk mitigation strategies:

Regular drainage system maintenance: Conducting routine inspections and maintenance of drainage systems to ensure they function effectively during heavy rainfall.
Floodplain mapping: Developing and updating floodplain maps to identify high-risk areas, enabling better planning and resource allocation for flood prevention and response efforts.
Emergency alerts: Implementing a robust emergency alert system to quickly inform residents of impending storm and flood risks, allowing them to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.

Public event liability encompasses risks such as injuries, crowd control issues, and alcohol-related incidents that can arise during large gatherings, which tend to be more frequent in the summer.

Mitigation strategies

Public entities may consider the following risk mitigation strategies:

Event permitting protocols: Promoting compliance with local regulations and safety standards to minimize risks associated with public gatherings.
Insurance requirements: Protecting against potential financial losses due to claims or lawsuits by mandating appropriate coverage for event organizers.
Safety checklists: Systematically identifying and addressing potential hazards before and during the event to enhance overall safety for attendees.

Water safety at public beaches and pools presents significant risks, including the potential for drownings, particularly if there isn’t a sufficient lifeguard presence, and waterborne illnesses.

Mitigation strategies

Public entities may consider the following risk mitigation strategies:

Lifeguard coverage: Ensuring adequate lifeguard staffing to monitor swimmers and respond quickly to emergencies.
Public signage: Installing clear and informative signage to educate visitors about safety rules and potential hazards in the water.
Regular water testing: Conducting frequent water quality tests to detect and address contamination issues that could lead to waterborne illnesses.
Swimming education: Providing swimming lessons and safety courses to equip individuals with essential skills and knowledge for safe water activities.

Increased recreational use of public spaces can lead to various risks, including vandalism, littering, overuse of facilities, and a rise in accidents such as playground injuries.

Mitigation strategies

Public entities may consider the following risk mitigation strategies:

Regular inspections: Conducting routine evaluations of public spaces to identify and rectify safety hazards and maintenance issues promptly.
Maintenance: Implementing a consistent maintenance schedule to ensure facilities are safe, clean, and well-functioning for all users.
Waste management planning: Developing comprehensive waste management strategies to provide adequate disposal options and reduce litter in public areas.
Surveillance: Installing surveillance systems to monitor activities in public spaces, deterring vandalism and enhancing safety through quick incident response.

Construction and road work hazards pose significant risks, including potential injuries to workers and pedestrians, as well as traffic collisions in work zones.

Mitigation strategies

Public entities may consider the following risk mitigation strategies:

Compliance with regional traffic safety standards: Adhering to established guidelines, such as Ontario’s Traffic Manual Book 7 for temporary conditions, to maintain safe work zone practices.
Public notifications: Providing timely information to the public about construction activities and potential disruptions to raise awareness and promote caution.
Barriers: Installing physical barriers to separate work zones from pedestrian and vehicular traffic, enhancing safety for both workers and the public.
Flagging protocols: Utilizing trained flaggers to direct traffic and promote safe passage through or around construction sites, reducing the risk of accidents.

Vector-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease and West Nile virus, can present significant risks to both staff and the public in parks and trails, potentially leading to serious health issues.

Mitigation strategies

Public entities may consider the following risk mitigation strategies:

Mosquito and tick control programs: Implementing targeted control measures to reduce the populations of disease-carrying vectors in recreational areas.
Public education: Providing information to the community about prevention strategies, such as avoiding certain areas during peak activity times and using repellents.
Protection for outdoor staff: Equipping outdoor staff with personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize their exposure to vectors while performing their duties.

Workforce challenges, including burnout, can pose significant risks to employees such as reduced capacity, fatigue-related errors, and diminished service levels within organizations.

Mitigation strategies

Public entities may consider the following risk mitigation strategies:

Scheduling flexibility: Offering flexible work schedules to help employees manage their workloads and personal commitments, reducing stress and burnout.
Wellness check-ins: Conducting regular wellness check-ins to monitor employee wellbeing and provide support when needed, fostering a healthier work environment.
Cross-training: Implementing cross-training programs to enhance staff versatility, allowing for better coverage and support during peak times or staff shortages.
Partnerships with educational institutions or agencies: Collaborating with educational institutions or staffing agencies to secure seasonal staffing support, alleviating pressure on existing employees during high-demand periods.

Prioritizing safety year round

Effectively managing risks through targeted mitigation strategies is crucial for fostering a safe and enjoyable environment for both staff and the public. By prioritizing proactive risk mitigation measures such as thoughtful planning, compliance with safety standards, public education, and flexible workforce management, organizations can enhance overall safety and wellbeing. These efforts not only protect individuals but also contribute to a more resilient and engaged community.

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