Be Prepared for the Summer Heat

Heat-related deaths and illnesses are 100% preventable, yet many people get sick or die every year during periods of extreme heat. Here are some helpful tips you can do to keep you from becoming ill when it gets hot:

Dress for Summer - Lightweight, loose fitting , light-coloured clothing reflects heat and sunlight, and helps your body maintain normal temperatures. Add a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) if heading outdoors.

Slow Down - Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day. If working outside in the heat, monitor coworkers and have them do the same for you.

Cool Down - Spend time in an air conditioned spaces (shopping malls, public building, libraries and other community centres ) Electric fans will not prevent heat-related illness when the temperature climbs above 35 degrees!

Eat Right - Fruits and vegetables help the body maintain an appropriate balance. Avoid heavy meals with fatty foods. They can cause the body to increase metabolic heat production which increases water loss.

Stay Hydrated - Drink plenty of cool fluids, even if you are not physically active and even if you are not thirsty.. Avoid liquids with alcohol, caffeine, and large amounts of sugar as these actually increase the loss of body fluid. Persons who have epilepsy, heart/kidney or liver disease, are on fluid restrictive diets or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a physician before increasing their consumption of fluids.

Keep it Cool - Cover windows that receive morning and afternoon sun with drapes and shades. Stay on the lowest floor, out of the sunshine, if airconditioning is not available.

Check on At-Risk Family/Friends - Check twice a day on friends and family members who are elderly, medically fragile or have limited access to adequate cooling.

Protect Your Pets - Bring pets inside during the hottest time of the day. Never leave pets in a parked car. Provide plenty of fresh water and shade for outdoor pets.

DO NOT - leave people or pets in a parked car for any length of time for any reason.

Those in need of assistance or have heat related inquiries may call 8-1-1 - on the phone or online at www.HealthLinkBC.ca for easy access to non-emergency health information and services. Translation services are available in over 130 languages on request. For deaf and hearing-impaired assistance (TTY), call 7-1-1.

Vancouver Coastal Health www.vch.ca