With high temperatures expected to continue into next week, Interior Health (IH) has shared some advice on how you can stay cool.
This comes as Environment Canada’s heat warning is still active and temperatures are expected to linger in the mid-to-high 30s across much of the Kootenays.
Interior Health (IH) officials said it’s important to be aware of indoor temperatures as well during prolonged periods of high temperatures.
IH said if you have an air conditioner, you should keep on top of maintenance.
The health authority offered some advice on what you should do if you do not have A/C.
“Find somewhere you can cool off on hot days. Consider places in your community to spend time indoors such as libraries, community centres, movie theatres or malls,” said IH.
“Also, as temperatures may be hotter inside than outside, consider outdoor spaces with lots of shade and running water.”
You can also close windows and blinds during the hottest parts of the day and open them back up at night.
A fan can also help draw in cooler air in the evenings, at night and early morning. However, you should not rely on it as your primary cooling source.
IH officials said you can help people who may be at high risk of heat-related illness.
“Sustained indoor temperatures over 31 C can be dangerous for people who are susceptible to heat,” said Interior Health officials.
“Identify people who may be at high risk for heat-related illness. If possible, help them prepare for the heat and plan to check in on them.”
You should drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, even if you may not be thirsty.
You can also spray yourself with water, wear a damp shirt, take a cool shower or bath or spend time on the water.
“Take it easy, especially during the hottest hours of the day,” said Interior Health.
“When outside, stay in the shade and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.”
High temperatures can be especially dangerous for older adults, people who live alone, people with mental illness, people with substance use disorder, those with limited mobility, unhoused people, people who work in hot environments, pregnant people and young children.
“It is important to monitor yourself, family members, neighbours and friends during hot weather. Consider developing a check-in system for those who are at high risk of heat-related illness,” said Interior Health.
“Take immediate action to cool down if you are overheating. Signs of overheating include feeling unwell, headache and dizziness. Overheating can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”
Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, severe headache, muscle cramps, extreme thirst and dark urine.
IH said heat stroke has some more severe symptoms, such as loss of consciousness, disorientation, confusion, severe nausea or vomiting and very dark urine or no urine. You should call 9-1-1 if you or someone else is suffering from heat stroke.
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