Environment & Climate Change Canada issues Heat Warnings across Canada.
A Heat Warning is issued when there is a forecast of two or more consecutive days with daytime maximum temperatures of 31°C (87.8°F) or warmer, together with nighttime minimum temperatures of 20°C (68°F) or warmer or when there is a forecast of two or more consecutive days with humidex values expected to reach 40°C (104°F) or higher.
Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, to decrease your risk of dehydration
Frequently call to check in with friends, neighbours, and elderly family members, especially those who are chronically ill, to make sure they are cool and hydrated
Call and check in on friends, family members, and neighbours who may be living in a building without air conditioning (it is especially important if they are elderly)
Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day or avoid outdoor activities if you have health concerns
Keep people and pets in your care out of parked vehicles and direct sunlight
Spend a few hours in a cool place while practicing physical distancing, such as a tree-shaded area
Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric and ensure you wear a hat and sunglasses
Avoid sun exposure – shade yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat or using an umbrella
Take cool showers or baths
Prepare meals that don't need to be cooked in your oven
Block sunlight by opening awnings, and closing curtains and blinds during the day
If you are taking medication or have an existing health condition, ask your doctor or pharmacist if heat exposure increases your health risk and follow their advice
If you have an air conditioner with a thermostat, keep it set to somewhere between 22ºC (72ºF) and 26ºC (79ºF), which will reduce your energy costs and provide you with needed relief
If you have a window air conditioner, cool only one room where you can go for heat relief
Extreme heat is a health risk and heat-related illness is preventable. Watch for the symptoms of heat illness:
Dizziness and fainting
Nausea and vomiting
Rapid breathing and heartbeat
Extreme thirst
Decreased urination with unusually dark urine
If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately move to a cool place and drink liquids. Cool water is best, not ice cold liquid.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 9-1-1 if you have or someone you are with has a high body temperature, along with one or a combination of the following: confused, unconscious, or has stopped sweating.
While you are waiting for help, cool the person right away by moving them to a cool or shady place, remove excess clothing, and/or applying cool water to large areas of the skin or clothing.
Check Environment & Climate Change Canada website for information on your local forecast and weather alerts or download their mobile app, WeatherCAN, which provides weather alert notifications in your area, as well as in your saved locations.
During a heat warning, residents are reminded to stay cool and hydrated, keep people and pets out of parked vehicles and to check on elderly persons.
It is important to take precautions to avoid suffering heat-related illnesses.