City of Ottawa Accessibility Spotlight - June 2023

 

The City of Ottawa celebrates its 20th Annual AccessAbility Day

Celebrating its 20th year, AccessAbility Day returned to the City of Ottawa as part of National AccessAbility Week (NAAW). The virtual Canada-wide event took place on May 31, in collaboration with the Canadian Accessibility Network (CAN) and the Institute of Public Affairs of Canada - National Capital Region (IPAC-NCR).   The event began with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, who officially proclaimed May 31, 2023, as AccessAbility Day in Ottawa. During his remarks, he emphasized the importance of collaboration between stakeholders and all levels of government, a theme echoed throughout the event.   The keynote speaker was Stephanie Cadieux, Canada's first Chief Accessibility Officer. For the panel discussion, she was joined by Meenu Sikand, Assistant Deputy Minister from the Province’s Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility, and Lucille Berlinguette-Saumure, Program Manager of Accessibility from the City. Each speaker offered unique and valuable perspectives on the developments in accessibility policies and legislation at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels.   In keeping with the 2023 NAAW theme, their discussion offered insights into how accessibility frameworks can begin moving "from possibilities to practice." The panelists highlighted the interconnected role of all levels of government in influencing a cultural transformation across the board.  For those who wish to view the event, a recording is available on the City of Ottawa's YouTube page.

Soak up the Summer Sun at Your Local City of Ottawa Beach

The City of Ottawa remains dedicated to ensuring barrier-free summer fun at our fully accessible beaches across the city.  You can find beach-accessible wheelchairs available at Mooney's Bay Beach, Britannia Beach, and Petrie Island Beach. They are offered on a first-come-first-serve basis every day from June 17 to August 27, 2023 free of charge. Please note there is no lift on site and users are required to provide their own attendant to push the chair and assist with the transfer in and out of the chair.  To inquire about availability and make a reservation, please use the following contact information: Mooney's Bay: Call 613-248-0863 (Mooney's Bay also provides a beach mat that allows individuals using mobility devices to access the shoreline. This is also free of charge, but please call head to arrange installation.) Britannia Beach: Call 613-820-1211 Petrie Island: Call 613-824-5704 You can also send an email to beaches@ottawa.ca for any inquiries or visit ottawa.ca for more information.

How to Stay Cool and Safe During Extreme Heat

As Ottawa experiences an increase in extreme heat events due to climate change, it is important to understand the risks associated with hot weather and how to stay safe. When temperatures and humidity levels rise, it can be difficult for our bodies to stay cool and avoid overheating. As a result, extreme heat poses a risk of heat-related illnesses and even death. It is important to watch for signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and sunburn. During heat warnings, everyone should take extra precautions, and certain people even at higher risk including infants, older adults, pregnant individuals, those that work outside, those with pre-existing health conditions, people experiencing homelessness, and those without access to air conditioning. Tips to Beat the Heat To stay safe, it is crucial to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, minimize sun exposure, dress appropriately, seek shade or air-conditioned spaces, use fans as needed and never leave vulnerable individuals in cars. In Ottawa, there are various places where you can escape the heat. To easily locate a cool space near you, you can use the interactive map on ottawa.ca. To stay informed, download the WeatherCAN app to ensure you receive timely updates on heat warnings issued for Ottawa.  Additionally, it is important to regularly check the Air Quality Health Index and the UV index forecast. Additional Resources If you need assistance or would like to help someone in need, please: Call 2-1-1 for locations and access information for shelters in Ottawa.   Call 3-1-1 to get assistance for someone who needs transportation to a shelter to get out of the heat. Further information and resources can be found on the Ottawa Public Health website, including guidance on outdoor air quality, sun safety, water safety, and keeping children safe during hot weather. For additional assistance, the Ottawa Public Health Information Centre can be contacted on weekdays at 613-580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-9656).