The warmer months in Canada can be a relief from our long winters, but they’re not without risk.
Heat waves can happen in late spring when your body isn’t yet used to extreme heat. This can put you at risk for heat illnesses, but you can take steps to keep yourself and your household safer.
Heat illnesses can affect you quickly, and can lead to long-term health problems and even death. That’s why being ready matters. By taking a few simple steps, you can help protect yourself, your family and others in your care.
You can become too hot outdoors or indoors. It’s believed that most heat deaths in Canada occur indoors. Older adults are especially at risk if they don’t have ways to stay cool.
Prepare for the heat before it gets here. Make sure you have access to a cool indoor space. If you have an air conditioner, make sure it works properly before the hot weather starts, and get it fixed if it is not in working condition.
If you don’t have a working air conditioner, know where you can go to get relief from the heat such as a cooling centre, community centre, library or shaded park. Check with your city or municipality to see if they offer relief services during hot weather.
Have a plan. It’s important to have an emergency plan for your home, and to make sure it prepares you for extreme heat.
For instance, you can arrange for regular visits by family members, neighbours or friends during very hot days in case you need help. Visitors can help identify signs of heat illness that could be missed over the phone.
Stay informed to stay cool. Tune in to local weather forecasts and alerts so you know when to take extra care.
Hot temperatures can be dangerous, especially if you are taking medication or have a health condition. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are at a higher health risk in the heat and follow their recommendations.
It's important to be ready before an extreme heat event starts. You can learn more about getting ready at canada.ca/heat.
– News Canada