July 27-31: Heat warning for B.C., people urged to take precautions
- Keep cool. High indoor temperatures are associated with increased risk. Stay indoors in air-conditioned buildings or take a cool bath or shower. At temperatures above 30 C, fans alone may not be able to prevent heat-related illness.
- Home treatment for mild heat exhaustion may include:
- moving to a cooler environment
- drinking plenty of cool, non-alcoholic fluids
- resting and
- taking a cool shower or bath
- If symptoms are not mild, last longer than one hour, change, worsen or cause concern, contact a health-care provider
- To ask about heat-related illness, call HealthLinkBC at 811
- Visit local health authority websites for more information on safety tips and how to keep cool during high temperatures
Health Impacts
Everyone is at risk of heat and wildfire smoke illnesses in the summer, and social housing tenants are at increased risk because they often have fewer resources.
Planning and Communicating with Tenants
Building managers and housing providers should communicate with tenants and building staff about the risks of extreme heat and poor air quality, the signs and symptoms of related illnesses, and how to stay safe.
How to Cool a Space
There are different actions building operators, staff and tenants can take to cool a space.
Resources and Webinars
The following resources and webinars will help you stay informed and prepared during extreme heat and wildfire smoke in BC.