Following the recent heat wave that swept across mainland Nova Scotia, Miriam Williams and her husband have resorted to using six box fans in their high-rise apartment to alleviate the oppressive 40 C feels-like temperature.

Williams, a member of the tenant advocacy group ACORN, participated in a nationwide rally at the Halifax Common splash pad in July to push for government intervention in addressing the escalating risks associated with extreme heat. The primary demands from various regions include setting indoor temperature limits for rented accommodations and providing cooling subsidies.

Expressing concern for vulnerable individuals, Williams highlighted the challenges faced by children and elderly residents in coping with the extreme heat.

Christian Salmeron, another rally participant, shared his struggle to find relief from the heat, resorting to seeking air-conditioned spaces for work. Despite the need for cooling solutions, tenants in his building have refrained from installing window air conditioners due to cost concerns.

Both Williams and Salmeron echoed the financial strain associated with cooling solutions, with Williams mentioning the high cost of running a portable air conditioner even for a single night.

The protesters advocated for a provincewide indoor temperature regulation, urging authorities to prevent landlords from prohibiting certain types of air conditioners and offering financial aid for their purchase.

While statistics on heat-related deaths in Canada lack standardization, a report from British Columbia’s coroner indicated that the 2021 heatwave led to 619 fatalities in the province.

In a progressive move, New Westminster in B.C. recently became the first city council in Canada to enforce a bylaw amendment requiring rental units to maintain a minimum indoor temperature of 26 C between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. in at least one living area.

Responding to concerns, the provincial government emphasized that building owners hold the authority to establish rules regarding supplementary air conditioning units. Service Nova Scotia mandates landlords to ensure the habitability of rental properties, with tenants having the option to escalate unresolved issues through the residential tenancies program.

Sarah Brannen, spokesperson for the Halifax Regional Municipality, emphasized the city’s commitment to addressing extreme heat risks through the HalifACT climate action plan, which includes strategies to mitigate indoor heat challenges.

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