Extreme Heat Events
Extreme heat events occur when uncommonly high temperatures are experienced for a minimum of two consecutive days. During extreme heat events, you are at higher risk of heat-related illness.
Too much heat can be harmful to your health, and in severe cases, can lead to heat stroke (sunstroke), which can be life-threatening. Heath stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 if you or a person you are taking care of has high body temperature, confusion, or is unconscious.
*There are currently no heat advisories in place for the Interior Health region.
How can I prevent heat-related illness?
Never leave children or pets alone in a parked car. Leaving the car windows slightly open will not keep the inside of the vehicle at a safe temperature.
Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids even before you feel thirsty.
Avoid tiring work or exercise in hot, humid environments. If you must work or exercise outside, drink two to four glasses of non-alcoholic fluids each hour. Take breaks from the heat in shaded environments.
Keep cool - stay indoors in air-conditioned buildings or take a cool bath or shower. At temperatures above 30 C (86 F), fans alone may not be able to prevent heat-related illness. If your house is too hot, consider going somewhere cooler.
Regularly check on older adults, children, and others for signs of heat-related illness and make sure they are keeping cool and drinking plenty of fluids. Check on those who are unable to leave their homes and people with emotional or mental health concerns whose judgement may be impaired.
Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest times of day. Plan your outdoor activity before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
Wear lightweight clothing that is light-coloured, loose-fitting and breathable. Wear a wide-brimmed hat or use an umbrella for shade.
Limit sun exposure and avoid sunburn - use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Remember, sunscreen will protect you from sunburn, but not from the heat.
Where can I take shelter from extreme heat?
Seeking shelter from extreme heat helps to reduce your risk of heat-related illness. If possible, seek shelter that has a functional air conditioning system. Examples of cooler spaces that may be available in your community include:
- museums
- libraries
- community centers
- shopping malls
- movie theatres
- parks with shaded areas
- swimming pools
- coffee shops
Who is most at risk of heat-related illness?
The impact of heat-related illness can change from person to person based on your genetics, age, and body's ability to adapt to heat. Everyone is at risk of heat-related illness, but the following people are at a higher risk.
- Older adults
- People with chronic conditions including heart and respiratory disease
- People who live alone or are socially isolated
- Infants and young children
- People who exercise or work outdoors.
- People on certain medications (consult with your pharmacist)
What are the symptoms of heat-related illness?
Symptoms of heat-related illness can range from mild to severe and include:
- pale, cool, moist skin
- heavy sweating
- fatigue and weakness
- dizziness and/or fainting
- headache
- muscle cramps
- rash
- swelling, especially hands and feet
- rapid breathing and heart rate
- extreme thirst
- nausea and/or vomiting
- fever, greater than 40 C
- confusion and decreased mental alertness
- hallucinations
- red, hot, dry skin
- seizures
- unconsciousness/coma
How do I treat heat-related illness?
When recognized early, most mild heat-related illnesses can be treated at home. Home treatment for mild heat exhaustion may include:
- move to a cooler and shaded environment
- drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic fluids event before you feel thirsty
- take a cool shower, bath, or apply a cool cloth on the skin
- rest
- wear lightweight clothing.
If symptoms last longer than one hour, get worse or cause you concern, contact your health care provider.
Heath stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 if you or a person you are taking care of has high body temperature, confusion, or is unconscious. If possible, move the person to a cool and shaded environment and apply cool water to the skin until help arrives.