June 27, 2021 - 9:00pm
Vancouver Island University (VIU) will be cancelling classes on Monday, June 28, 2021, due to extreme heat. Vancouver Island is currently experiencing a heat wave, with extremely high temperatures in the forecast for tomorrow.
While classes will NOT be in session tomorrow, students and employees are welcome to come to campus to take respite from the heat. Open-access buildings at VIU’s Nanaimo campus, such as the library and the Upper Cafeteria, as well as the Cowichan and Powell River campuses are all equipped with air conditioning. The gym at VIU's Nanaimo campus does not have air conditioning and is closed until further notice.
Employees can continue to work from their regular locations – whether they work on-campus or from home – if they feel it is safe to do so. If they do not feel it is safe to work from where they are scheduled to work from, VIU asks that employees talk to their managers about making alternate arrangements such as taking the day as a vacation day.
VIU will be monitoring temperatures throughout the day, as well as the forecast for Tuesday, June 29, and will let people know by 6 pm on Monday at the latest whether or not classes will remain cancelled for Tuesday.
Tips to stay safe during extreme heat:
- Stay hydrated – drink plenty of cool liquids before you feel thirsty
- Spend your time in a shaded, cool place
- Use fans, water and ice to keep your cool
- Avoid sun exposure
- Wear light clothing that allows sweat to evaporate quickly
- Take the breaks you need in order to keep cool and hydrated
More tips are available here: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/sun-safety/extreme-heat-heat-waves.html
Tags: Announcements
