Heat Wave Tips
We may think of Canada as the winter capital of the world, but summers can get very hot. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can result in heat-related emergencies, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
Follow these steps to protect yourself and your family during a heat wave:
– Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.
– Stay hydrated and cool. Drink plenty of cool fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and check in with children and seniors to make sure they are drinking regularly.
– Avoid caffeine and alcohol because they can cause dehydration, which stops your body from controlling its temperature properly.
– Avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day (typically between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.).
– Dress for the heat and for your activity level: Wear light, loose clothing to let air circulate and heat escape.
– Always wear a hat and apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher before going outside.
– Slow down your activities as it gets hotter. Move indoors and don’t work, exercise, or play outside for an extended period of time.
– Take frequent breaks in a cool or shady area and use the buddy system if you need to be outside when it’s hot.
– Check on your pets and animals frequently – make sure their needs for water and shade are met.
– Pay close attention to how you and those around you feel. Check on vulnerable family members, friends and neighbors (such as children, the elderly and ill) who may require assistance.
Anyone who experiences a sunburn should immediately move out of the sun, move to a cool area and consume extra fluids for the days following.
A severe sunburn may require medical attention if it results in display blisters, facial swelling, nausea, fever or severe chills, rapid pulse or breathing, signs of dehydration, etc.
Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke, can happen to anyone who stays in the heat and sun for too long.