Staying safe in extreme heat

As extreme heat impacts the province this summer, it's important to know the importance of heat safety to prevent illness and death related to high temperatures.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Certain populations are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, including:

• Older adults (ages 65 and up)

• Infants and young children

• People with chronic medical conditions

• Outdoor workers and athletes

• Individuals without access to air conditioning

Heat illnesses range from mild conditions such as heat rash and heat cramps to more serious problems like heat exhaustion and heat stroke — a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Key Heat Safety Guidelines

Health and emergency agencies recommend the following practices to stay safe during extreme heat:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, which can dehydrate the body.

• Avoid Peak Heat Hours: Stay indoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when temperatures are highest.

• Use Air Conditioning: Spend time in air-conditioned buildings. If your home lacks AC, visit public places such as libraries, shopping malls, or community cooling centers.

• Wear Lightweight Clothing: Dress in loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and wear a wide-brimmed hat outdoors.

• Check on Others: Monitor the wellbeing of neighbors, especially the elderly, those living alone, and individuals with medical conditions.

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Recognizing Heat Illness

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. If not treated, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, marked by confusion, body temperature above 39.4°C, rapid pulse, and loss of consciousness.

If someone shows signs of heat stroke, call 911 immediately and try to cool them down while waiting for help.