What To Do During a Heat Wave

Cooling centers will be open during extreme heat warnings and no one will be denied access, even if physical distancing cannot be maintained and if the heat is causing people to have difficulty breathing with a mask, masks should be removed, as masks may impact thermal regulation during heat waves. 
 
During the heat wave it is important to take precautions to stay to protect yourself from the heat:

Keep cool       
  • NEVER leave children or pets alone in a parked car. Temperatures can rise to 52°C (125°F) within 20 minutes in an enclosed vehicle when the outside temperature is 34°C (93°F). Leaving the car windows slightly open or "cracked" will not keep the inside of the vehicle at a safe temperature.
  • Seek out an air-conditioned facility (such as a shopping centre, library, community centre or restaurant).
  • Use public splash pools, water parks or pools or take a cool bath or shower.
  • At current temperatures, fans alone are not effective.  Applying cool water mist or wet towels prior to sitting in front of a fan is a quick way to cool off.
  • Dress for the weather by wearing loose, light-weight clothing. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
  • Keep your home cool. Open windows, close shades, use an air conditioner (if you have one) and prepare meals that do not require an oven.
  • Avoid sunburn, stay in the shade or use sunscreen with SPF 15 or more.
  • Avoid tiring work or exercise in the heat. If you must exercise, drink two to four glasses of non-alcoholic fluids each hour. Limit day time outdoor activity to early morning and evening.
Stay hydrated     
  • Drink cool non-alcoholic beverages (preferably water) irrespective of your activity intake.  Don’t wait until you are thirsty.
  •  If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask about increasing the amount of water you can drink while the weather is hot.


Check in on others      
  • People living alone are at high risk of severe heat related illness.
  • Check regularly on older people, and those who are unable to leave their homes, for signs of heat-related illness like dizziness, confusion, weakness and fainting. 
  • Ask whether people know how to prevent heat-related illness and are doing the same. 
  • If others are unwell, move them to a cool shady spot, help them get hydrated and call for medical assistance if appropriate.

Free portable A/C Units for vulnerable individuals

Funding from the BC Government has been expanded to include portable A/C systems for vulnerable customers, including income-qualified individuals and individuals deemed medically heat-vulnerable. Applications are available through the BC Hydro website.
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For more information, visit the BC Hydro website. 

More Information By Region

Vancouver Coastal Health Authority

City of Vancouver - Hot weather resources, cooling centres, cleaner air spaces, heat response plan
 
Richmond – Staying safe in hot weather

North Vancouver – Resources for extreme heat
 
 Fraser Health Authority
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Burnaby –Cooling centres and stations
 
Surrey – Summer cooling: extreme heat & smoke relief locations
 
New Westminster – Heat Warning and Cooling Centre Information
 
Coquitlam – Staying cool during hot weather

Maple Ridge – Extreme heat resources