With the summer forecast projecting above-average temperatures, it is becoming more and more important to remember tips to beat the heat.
The Weather Network has confirmed that Metro-Vancouver should expect a warmer-than-average summer with no excessive heat expected for the coastal region. We already have several days over 30°C on the record for this year and there is never a bad time to consider Extreme Heat Preparedness.
Beat the heat this summer! Follow these handy tips to keep you and your loved ones safe during the hottest days of the year.
Tip 1 Prepare
- Know what’s in store for your local weather by tuning into weather forecasts and alerts.
- If you have an air conditioner, make sure it works properly
- If you don’t have air conditioning, find somewhere nearby you can go to cool off for a few hours on hot days
- Ensure you have a working fan
- Install window coverings to block the sun
- Stock up on food, medications, and freeze water to keep cool
- Get to know your neighbours, check in with your community and identify who might be vulnerable and need support during a heat event
Tip 2 Know the Signs of Heat Illness
Signs of heat stress:
- Stinging, itchy skin, sometimes called “prickly heat”
- Red rash
- Muscle spasms
Signs of heat exhaustion:
- Heavy sweating
- Feeling dizzy or faint
- Cool skin
- Fast heart beat and breathing
- Feeling sick or throwing up
- Headache
- Muscle cramps or pain
- Extreme thirst
- Trouble concentrating
- Very dark urine or going less often
Signs of heat stroke:
- High body temperature
- Confusion
- Feeling very dizzy or faining
- Very hot, red, and dry skin
- Less coordination
Heat stroke is a medical emergency! Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number immediately and attempt to cool yourself or the person in distress right away.
Tip 3 Check in with Your Community
Who is at risk
- Older adults may have compounding factors such as chronic illness, medications that interfere with the body’s cooling, social isolation and poverty
- Infants and young children are entirely reliant on caregivers and have unique
- People with chronic illness or on medications can experience breathing difficulties, heart problems, and psychiatric illnesses that can lead to heat-related health risks
- People who work or are active outdoors face greater environmental heat exposure
Tip 4 Keep Cool
- Wear loose-fitting, light coloured clothing made of breathable fabric
- Avoid direct sunlight
- Drink lots of water
- Take cool showers or baths until you feel refreshed
- Plan strenuous outdoor activities for cooler days, or choose a cooler – indoor- location
- Keep pets out of the heat and provide lots of water
- Spend time in a cool place, tree-shaded area, swimming facility, or air-conditioned spot
Find a Cooling Venue
The City of New Westminster opens air conditioned facilities for the general public to have a place to cool down.
- Century House, 620 Eighth Street
- Queensborough Community Centre, 920 Ewen Ave
- New Westminster Public Library, 716 Sixth Ave (No pets allowed)
- Anvil Centre, 777 Columbia Street (No pets allowed)
- təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre, 65 Sixth Ave