Many people look forward to the warm summer weather and don’t see it as a potential health risk. However, as our climate continues to change, the severity of the weather conditions that already pose risks to our health can increase. Extreme heat events are expected to become more intense, more frequent and last longer in many regions in Canada, compounding the health risks to Canadians.
The good news is that heat-related illnesses and death can be prevented by knowing who is vulnerable, recognizing the symptoms and taking protective actions. Health Canada recommends five steps to protect yourself and those in your care during very hot weather.
Prepare for the heat — Tune in to local weather forecasts and alerts so you know when to take extra care. Arrange extra visits with older family, neighbours or friends during very hot days to ensure they are staying cool and hydrated. Ensure your air conditioning works properly before the start of the heat season.
Watch for symptoms of heat illness – If you experience any of the following – dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, headaches, rapid breathing and heartbeat, extreme thirst or decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine, immediately move to a cool place and drink liquids (water is best). Call 911 or your local emergency number if someone has a high body temperature and is either unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating. While waiting for help, move the person to a cool place if possible, fan them and apply cold water to large areas of the skin or clothing.
Avoid exposure to extreme heat outdoors – Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight. Plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day and avoid sun exposure by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat, using an umbrella or spending time in tree-shaded areas.
Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before you feel thirsty. Try these tips: leave a glass by the sink to remind yourself to drink water, flavour water with fruit juice, and eat more fruits and vegetables as they have high water content.
Stay cool – Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made from breathable fabric, and take cool showers or baths to feel refreshed. Keep your home cool by preparing meals that don’t need to be cooked in the oven, and by closing awnings, curtains and blinds during the day. Spend time in places such as swimming facilities or air-conditioned public buildings.
More information on how to recognize, treat and prevent heat-related illness is available from Health Canada by visiting www.healthycanadians.gc.ca/sun or by calling 1-866-225-0709.
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