Summer temperatures often pass thirty degrees and humidity can make it feel closer to forty. The warmth is welcome after winter, but heat carries real risks.
Heat
- Drink water regularly even when you do not feel thirsty.
- Stay in shade or indoors during the hottest afternoon hours.
- Cities open cooling centres in libraries and community centres during heat waves.
- Never leave a child or a pet in a parked car, even briefly.
- Check on elderly neighbours and anyone with a health condition.
Heat illness
Heavy sweating, headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness or fainting can be signs of heat illness. Move to a cooler place, drink water if the person is awake and seek medical advice. Call 911 for confusion, loss of consciousness or another medical emergency.
Some medications can affect how the body handles heat. Ask a pharmacist about safe storage and whether extra precautions apply. Never stop prescribed medication without medical advice.
Sun and water
- Use sunscreen of thirty or higher, reapply every few hours, and wear a hat and sunglasses.
- Wear a lifejacket when boating and swim only in supervised areas if you are not a strong swimmer.
- Many community centres run low cost swimming lessons for adults. Drownings happen every summer, often to people unfamiliar with lakes and rivers.
- Teach children water safety early and never let them swim alone.
Air, insects and food
Wildfire smoke can lower air quality on some summer days. Check the Air Quality Health Index and limit hard outdoor activity if you have breathing problems. Mosquitoes appear at dusk and can carry West Nile virus, so use repellent or cover your skin. In the heat, food spoils quickly, so keep cold food cold at picnics and barbecues.