As temperatures rise across Canada, it is important to remember that extreme heat is more than an inconvenience. Prolonged exposure can affect the body quickly, especially during physical activity, outdoor work or long periods inside a hot home. Health Canada says heat illness can become serious if the body is unable to cool itself properly.
Heat exhaustion is one of the most important warning signs to recognize. According to Health Canada, symptoms may include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fainting, rapid breathing, a fast heartbeat, extreme thirst and unusually dark urine. Children may also show changes in behaviour, including sleepiness or irritability. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should move to a cool place and drink water immediately.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate action. Health Canada advises Canadians to call 911 if someone has a high body temperature and appears confused, loses coordination, becomes unconscious or stops sweating. While waiting for emergency assistance, the person should be moved to a cooler location and cooled with cold water and fanning.
Prevention starts before a heat warning is issued. Canadians should drink water before they feel thirsty, take additional breaks during outdoor activities and schedule demanding tasks during cooler parts of the day. Health Canada also recommends wearing loose fitting, light coloured clothing and using curtains or blinds to prevent direct sunlight from heating the home.
People should also check on family members, neighbours and friends during extreme heat, particularly seniors, young children and anyone living without reliable cooling. A short visit can be important because signs of heat illness may be easier to recognize in person than over the phone.
Fans can provide comfort, but they may not be enough during dangerously hot conditions. Health Canada notes that fans are ineffective at cooling the body when temperatures exceed 35°C. Anyone living in an extremely hot home should consider spending time in an air conditioned location such as a public library, shopping mall or community facility.
