A heat warning is in effect for Great Victoria. Environment and Climate Change Canada is predicting daytime temperatures in the low 30s, with overnight lows near 16 C.
There are 13 misting/water bottle filling stations, drinking fountains and places to stay cool located throughout the city. Find them using the City’s Extreme Heat VicMap.
You can take steps to reduce your risk of heat-related illness by drinking more fluids regardless of your activity level, and do not wait until you are thirsty to have a drink. Avoid liquids that contain alcohol, caffeine or large amounts of sugar, as these are less helpful in keeping your body hydrated. Certain factors can cause an increased risk of heat illness and death, such as pre-existing medical conditions and medications, age, pregnancy, drug use, etc. Be aware of these risks.
Symptoms of heat related illness may include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, rash, swelling, fatigue and weakness, light headedness and/or fainting, headache, nausea and/or vomiting, extreme thirst, dark urine and increased urination. More severe symptoms may require urgent medical attention. These include high body temperature, flushed skin, light-headedness and/or fainting, confusion, seizures and unconsciousness.
Follow these tips to stay cool during extreme heat:
Close your windows, curtains and blinds during the day
Avoid using large appliances such as the oven
Drink lots of water
Wear sunscreen if you are outside
Go to someone’s house to cool down or sleep if your home is too hot
Walk pets in the shade to avoid hot pavement.
Take time to check in with family, friends and neighbours who are vulnerable, especially in the evening when it is hotter indoors than outdoors.
For more information on what you can do to beat the heat, and the signs, symptoms and treatment of heat-related illness, visit victoria.ca/ExtremeHeat.