In extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed, and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature.

Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are two common conditions that can present themselves. In extreme circumstances these effects can lead to heat-related deaths. 

Visit Island Health Heat Safety, HealthLink BC and the Government of Canada's extreme heat page for information on heat safety. 

• Consider purchasing or servicing air-conditioners
• Install temporary window reflectors 
• Provide window coverings for windows that receive direct sunlight 
• Weather strip doors and sills to keep cool air in 
• Listen to local weather forecasts and stay aware of upcoming temperature changes 
• Know those in your neighbourhood who are elderly, young, sick or at greater risk 
• They are more likely to become victims of excessive heat and may need help 
• Check out the RDN Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program 
• Know how to create an emergency plan 
• Build or restock your emergency grab-and-go kit  

• Avoid drinks with caffeine 
• Stay hydrated by drinking cool beverages (preferably water), even if you do not feel thirsty
• Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle - temperatures can rise higher than 50 degrees Celsius
• Limit time outdoors between 10:00 and 16:00 when the heat and sun are most intense
• Stay in the shade, when outside and use sunscreen with SPF 30 or more 
• Eat well-balanced, light and regular meals 
• Avoid salt if possible
• Limit intake of alcoholic beverages 
• Dress accordingly by wearing light coloured, loose fitting clothing that covers your skin and a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to shade your face 
• Avoid demanding physical work or exercise in the heat 
• If you do perform tasks that are exerting, drink plenty of extra fluids and take regular breaks 
• Keep spray bottles full of cold water close by for a quick cool down 
• Cool showers and misting yourself and your clothing with cool water will keep you cool 
• Keep your home cool by closing shades during the day, opening windows at night and using an air conditioner if you have one 
• If you don’t have air-conditioning, take shelter in the coolest room in your home and use a fan 
• Blowing a fan across a pan of iced water can create a cool breeze 
• Take advantage of air-conditioned buildings such as malls, library, and community centres 
• Electric fans can provide comfort but when the temperature is above 37 degrees Celsius, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or spending time in an air-conditioned place, is a much better way to cool off 

• Check on others, especially those suffering from heart, lung and kidney conditions 
• Pay special attention to seniors, infants and pets - they face an increased risk of heat related illness 
• If you find anyone suffering from heat-related illness, move them to a shady location and call for medical assistance, if required 
  • Signs of heat exhaustion include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea; dizziness; weakness; and exhaustion 
  • Signs of heat stroke include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting; and high body temperature 
  • Move the person to a cooler place 
  • Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloth or a towel to the skin 
  • Fan the person. If the person is conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink 
  • Make sure the person drinks slowly
  • Watch for changes in condition
• If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number