How to Beat the Heat

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Heat related illness can be prevented. While extreme heat can present a health risk to everyone, call or visit people who are at increased risk for heat-related illness to make sure they are okay.

People at increased risk for heat related illness include:

  • older adults
  • infants and young children
  • people with chronic illnesses, such as heart or respiratory conditions, people with limited physical mobility and people with certain mental health illnesses
  • people on certain medications
  • people who work or exercise in the heat
  • homeless people and low-income earners

How to prevent heat related illness:

  • Drink lots of cool water even before you feel thirsty.
  • Go to an air conditioned place such as a shopping mall, library or community centre.
  • Wear loose light coloured breathable clothing and when outdoors wear a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Avoid the sun and stay in the shade or use an umbrella.
  • Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day.
  • Take cool showers or baths or use cool wet towels to cool down.
  • Keep blinds or drapes closed to block out the sun during the day.
  • Make meals that don't use an oven, especially if you don't have air conditioning.
  • Use a fan next to your window, to bring cooler air in from outside.
  • Never leave a person or pet inside a parked car or in the direct sunlight.
  • Consult with your doctor or pharmacist on medications that increase your risk to heat.
  • Call or visit at-risk family, friends or neighbours, especially seniors living alone to make sure they are drinking plenty of fluids and keeping cool.

Watch for symptoms of heat related illnesses, which include:

  • dizziness or fainting
  • nausea or vomiting
  • headache
  • rapid breathing and heartbeat
  • extreme thirst
If you experience these symptoms move to a cool place and drink water. If the symptoms continue, see your doctor.

Heat Stroke is a medical emergency so if a person has a high body temperature and is either confused, has stopped sweating or is unconscious, call 911. While waiting for emergency services to arrive, help the person by doing this:

  • Move the person to a cooler location, if you can.
  • Apply cold water to large area of skin or clothing.
  • Fan the person.

Last updated April 2012