As temperatures drop across Alberta, hotels often become frontline points of contact for individuals seeking warmth and safety. While hotels are not designated warming centres, hoteliers play an important role in responding safely, consistently, and compassionately. 

This guide outlines how to support displaced and vulnerable individuals during extreme cold - while protecting staff, guests, and hotel property. 

1. Connect With Your Municipality Early 

Every Alberta municipality operates its own cold weather emergency response. These supports can include warming spaces, shuttle services, emergency shelters, encampment response teams, and social service outreach. 

Encourage your hotel’s leadership team to proactively contact your local municipal office or social service providers to understand: 

• What cold weather supports exist locally 
• Who to call when someone needs warming, shelter, or transportation 
• What not to do (e.g., keeping people inside without proper supports) 

2. Train Your Staff on Safe, Respectful Engagement 

Staff should feel confident approaching displaced individuals calmly, respectfully, and with clear guidance. 

Encourage all frontline team members to complete the TourismWorks Interacting with Vulnerable Individuals Training which provides practical, hospitality specific scenarios.