With the heat the area will be experiencing this weekend, AHS is offering up tips to stay cool.
The heat can cause health issues, ranging from mild to serious, if the body temperature gets too high.
Older adults, infants and young children, those who are pregnant, have a pre-existing medical or mental health conditions, those who live alone or are socially isolated, and those with no access to indoor cooling are at a greater risk of heat-related illnesses.
Some heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke, can be life-threatening and require medical attention.
Symptoms of heat stroke include:
- Unconsciousness
- Convulsion (seizure)
- Difficulty breathing
- High body temperature
- Confusion, restlessness or anxiety
- Fast heart rate
- Skin that may be red, hot and dry (sweating has stopped)
- Vomiting and diarrhea
If someone is experiencing those symptoms, while they are waiting for medical attention, move them to a cool place, out of direct sunlight, and remove any unnecessary clothing and place them on their side to expose as much skin to the air as possible.
On top of that, cool them off by sponging or spraying cold water, fan them, and apply ice packs to the neck, armpits, and groin.
During extreme heat events, take precautions to protect yourself and loved ones.
Check on the family members, friends, and neighbours, especially those who are older or have mental illnesses, have chronic health conditions.
With the heat, stay hydrated and drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages.
Use air conditioner if able, because indoor temperatures above 26°C increased the chances of heat-related illnesses for those at-risk, and when indoor temperatures go above 31°C, the risk increases.
When possible, reschedule outdoor activities to a cooler day.
To learn more tips to stay safe in this heat, click here.