Heat related illnesses occur when we cannot transfer enough heat away from our bodies through sweating and blood flow to the skin. Babies, elderly, obese persons and persons with chronic diseases are at greater risk, since their bodies do not transfer heat as effectively. However, anyone is at risk for possible heat-related illness and should take precautions.

Heat strain (heat exhaustion, fainting, cramps)
Heat stroke (sweating ceases, headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, red/hot/dry skin)

***Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If you have these symptoms dial 911 immediately***

In high heat the most important way to maintain your core body temperature is through evaporation (sweating).The best thing to do during an extreme heat event (high 30s degree Celsius/high 90s F) is to keep yourself cool.

• Drink plenty of water.
  
• Cool yourself off by taking a cool shower, bath or sponge bath.
  
• Avoid physical exertion in the heat - listen to your body! Change your exercise when it is extremely hot (walk in the shade, swim outdoors, play in a sprinkler in the shade).
  
• Be aware that caffeine and alcohol can contribute to or worsen dehydration.
  
• If you take medications check with your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects during extreme heat.
  
• Babies, children, pregnant women and the elderly are more vulnerable to extreme heat. Ensure they are adequately protected and kept cool.
  
• NEVER leave children and/or pets unattended in vehicles.
  
• Cool your house down - open windows and chimney flues to let hot air out if the evening air is cool. Avoid the use of ovens, washing machines, and dishwashers etc. that heat up your house during the day.
  
• Point a fan at a bucket filled with four cups of ice water - the cool air won't have anywhere to go but up and out of the bucket and will cool you down.
  
• Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 30s degrees Celsius (high 90s F); fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.
  
• Go to public places that are cool (shopping mall, public library, church, pool) - even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.
  
• Think about your neighbours, family and friends that might be isolated or ‘shut in' - check on them, bring water, ensure they are keeping cool.
  
• Wear loose fitting, light weight, light coloured clothing. Added bonus: you are less attractive to mosquitoes!
  
• Remember that heat isn't the only thing to be aware of - avoid damaging UV rays from the sun by applying a sunscreen with SPF of 30 (or greater if you work outdoors) and apply insect repellent if you are outdoors at dusk or dawn.
  
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses (with a UVA/UVB CSA certified seal). If possible, use an umbrella for shade.
  

Healthline 

You can contact Healthline for advice at 1-877-800-0002.

Heat-Health Brochures

Extreme heat is a health risk. This risk will likely increase as our climate continues to change. To help the public prepare for extreme heat and reduce health impacts, Health Canada has developed three brochures. The brochures use consistent and scientifically informed heat-health messages, tailored to the needs of specific audiences.

• (2011) It's way too hot! Protect Yourself from Extreme Heat
• (2011) Keep children cool! Protect Your Child from Extreme Heat
• (2011) You're active in the heat. You're at risk! Protect Yourself from Extreme Heat

The brochures are intended for two audiences:
• Officials who are developing or updating heat-health communication campaigns
• Individuals interested in health risks and actions to take to stay healthy during extreme heat.