Ottawa OPP said they responded to multiple reports of vehicles that had broken down or overheated Saturday.
The city is currently under an extreme heat warning with Saturday peaking at 33 C with the humidex making it feel like 38.
Heat places increased stress on the vehicle’s engine and can also lead to evaporating fluids and varying tire pressure.
“It’s always a good idea on hot days to check the fluids in your vehicle before driving so you can hopefully avoid being stranded,” the OPP wrote on X. “Make sure to have emergency supplies such as extra water to stay hydrated!”
In extreme cases, the entire system can malfunction, leading the car to overheat which can be dangerous.
The OPP responded to one vehicle on Hwy 417 that caught fire Saturday.
All occupants were able to evacuate the vehicle safely and the blaze was put out by Ottawa Fire Services.
#OttawaOPP had a busy day responding to vehicles that had overheated or broken down due to the extreme temperatures in the city. This included a vehicle fire on #Hwy417. Thankfully, everyone got out safely, and @OttFire quickly put the fire out. It’s always a good idea on hot… pic.twitter.com/77If0TqP9t
— OPP East Region (@OPP_ER) August 10, 2025