Are you ready for extreme heat?

(NC) Canada is known for its cold winters, but we also have periods of extreme heat. Hot weather can be dangerous if you don’t have air conditioning or cool indoor places to go to. Here are a few things that can help you get prepared:

Heat can kill. Heat waves can be deadly. In 2021, a heat wave in western Canada led to at least 619 deaths in British Columbia.

Extreme heat can cause illnesses that start quickly and can lead to long-term health problems.

Examples include muscle cramps, heat exhaustion, fainting and heat stroke. Heat stroke is a medical emergency.

While heat is a risk to all of us, some people are at even higher risk. Groups that are at greater risk during a heat event include:

• Older adults may not know they are thirsty and are more likely to overheat and get dehydrated.
• Infants and young children get hot faster and may not notice the signs that they’re getting sick from the heat.
• People with chronic or ongoing health conditions may take medicines that make them more sensitive to heat. They may not notice or be able to speak up when they’re overheating and may need help from a caregiver. These factors make it harder for them to stay cool and hydrated.

Frequently visit neighbours, friends and older family members, especially those who are chronically ill, to make sure that they are cool and hydrated.

What can you do to get ready? It’s important to get ready for extreme heat before it happens. Here are some important steps to take:

• Make an emergency kit. During extreme heat, you may need to get by without power or tap water for a few days. The kit should be easy to find in the dark and should have water, food and a wind-up or battery-powered flashlight.
• Make a household emergency plan. Think about what each person in your household needs. This includes older adults, children and people with long-term health conditions.
• Make sure your home is ready. If you have an air conditioning unit, check that it’s working properly. Block the sun by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day, and open windows if it’s cooler outside than inside.
• Learn what heat relief options are near you. Many local governments offer relief, such as cooling centres, extended pool hours or transportation services during extreme heat events. Check with your city or municipality to learn more.

Staying informed is the first step in getting prepared for extreme heat. By getting ready now, you can better protect yourself and your household. Learn more at canada.ca/heat.