Key Vulnerable Groups:

• Seniors (65+)

• Anyone living with a health condition that increases heat sensitivity (e.g., cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, high blood pressure etc.)

• Anyone treating a health condition with medication that increases heat sensitivity (e.g., blood pressure treatments, diuretics, antihistamines, decongestants, medicines to treat psychiatric conditions, etc.)

If you are taking medication, talk to your medical provider to determine if your condition or medication increases your sensitivity to heat and/or sun (UV rays).

Who Else May Be Vulnerable?

Other vulnerable groups can include people who live in a low-income household, people who live with mental health issues, and people whose job requires working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If you know someone who may belong to one of these groups, we encourage you to reach out to them, and share this information.

How Does An Extreme Heat Warning Impact Me?

If an Extreme Heat Warning is released, it is important to know how to keep your home cool, as well as where cooling centers may be located in your community. There are also ways to help your body stay cool during the hottest parts of the day.

10 cool tips for staying cool:

1. Arrange fans near open windows at night to move cool air into your home

2. Keep the windows open at night to let cool air in, and closed during the day to keep the hot air out

3. Arrange air conditioner units if possible

4. Stay hydrated and shaded (including keeping blinds/curtains closed during the days)

5. Eat hydrating foods, such as watermelon, cucumber, apples, or other juicy fruits/veggies

6. Practice sun safety, as sunburns can reduce the body's ability to stay cool

7. Wear lighter and looser clothing

8. Avoid strenuous activities, especially when the temperature rises

9. Take cool showers, swimming, or using sprinklers

10. Do not leave any person or pet inside a closed vehicle under any circumstances

Understanding and recognizing the signs of heat stroke and/or heat exhaustion is important. If someone is nauseous/vomiting, has a headache, is dizzy/fainting, extremely thirsty, breathing shallowly and/or rapidly, is not urinating, or is experiencing behavioural changes, it's important to act quickly. You can cool a person down using shade, cool cloths, and fans. It's also important to make sure the person has water to drink. You can also remove shoes or clothing as necessary to facilitate cooling.

Call 911 if someone is still feeling unwell after 30 minutes of cooling, is not sweating while feeling too hot, loses consciousness, has a fit (seizure), or becomes non-responsive.