Extreme Heat – Get Prepared

At Winterberry we are here to help you live your best life and that includes preparing you for weather events.

At this time of year, our attention turns to preparing you for extreme heat.

Although anyone can experience heat stress, the associated health risks are greatest for those over the age of 65, infants and young children, people with chronic conditions such as breathing or heart problems, and for those who work or exercise in the heat. Fortunately, heat-related illnesses are preventable.

Below is reliable information you can trust to help you “weather” our next heat event!

Find out how to keep cool and stay safe when temperatures rise.

Pay attention to heat warnings which inform you that an extreme heat event is forecasted or occurring.

Prepare your emergency kits. Learn more about what items to put in your kit, including quick and easy steps you can take right away at no cost

Make a household emergency plan that considers ways to prepare for extreme heat. Consider the specific needs of all members of your household, including older adults, children, pets, and anyone with additional health needs

Arrange for regular wellness check-ins or visits in person (or by phone or virtually) several times daily by family, neighbours, or friends

Many local governments offer relief strategies such as cooling centres, extended pool hours, or transportation services during extreme heat events. Check with your city or municipality to learn more

Be aware of your personal risk to extreme heat. Ask a health professional, such as a pharmacist, physician, or nurse practitioner how medications or health conditions may make you more susceptible to the heat

Know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness and which groups are more at-risk for heat-related illness

During extreme heat events, people may spend more time outdoors. Be aware of extreme heat combined with humidity, wildfire smoke, and sun exposure

If you have an air conditioner, make sure it works properly

If you do not have an air conditioner, consider other ways to keep your home cool such as blocking the sun by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day. Opening windows may be advisable if the temperature outdoors is lower than indoors, while being mindful of any outdoor air quality warnings

When your home gets too hot, take advantage of public cooling centers or air-conditioned spaces that you can visit during heat events

If it is safe to do so, leave a couple of windows open at night to take advantage of falling temperatures

It is important to slow down, drink water, and stay cool during an extreme heat event because your body can’t function as well in high temperatures. Whether you are indoors or outdoors during extreme heat, you can protect yourself from the health effects of extreme heat.

Stay in an air-conditioned space or in the shade as much as possible

Stay hydrated and dress for the weather by wearing lightweight, light-coloured, and loose-fitting clothing

Pay attention to how you, and those around you feel and watch for signs and symptoms of heat illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Never leave people (especially children) or pets inside a parked vehicle, even on a moderately hot day

Check on older adult family members, neighbours, and friends to make sure they are comfortable and safe

Remember that indoor temperatures can remain warm, even after outdoor temperatures cool down. Continue monitoring the temperature of your home and watching for signs and symptoms of heat-related illness in yourself and others. If you experienced a heat-related illness during the heat event, consult with your health care provider to prepare for future heat events.

Source: https://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/hzd/xtrm-ht-prp-en.aspx