NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO – The government of Canada and health authorities are reminding the public about the dangers of heat stroke.
Although the worst of the summer heat is behind us, the sun is still out there looming overhead.
Therefore, it’s always a good idea to take extra precautions outside of the normal use of sunblock and stay hydrated.
Extreme heat involving high temperatures can pose a serious health risk to older adults, infants and young children, the chronically ill, and people who spend a lot of time working outdoors.
According to Health Canada, “the number of extremely hot days in a year is expected to more than double in some parts of Canada.”
Why? Well, climate change. No, not global warming, although global warming is part of climate change.
Many places in Canada face extreme heat from time to time. These heat waves involve high temperatures combined with high humidity.
However, Health Canada acknowledges that “[a] changing climate can mean longer and more intense heat events that can be dangerous for your health.”
In other words, anything from sunburns to death can occur.
So, what can you do to lessen the chances of becoming sick from extreme heat?
Know the signs of heat exhaustion:
- High body temperature
- Confusion and lack of coordination
- Skin rash
- Muscle cramps
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea or vomiting
- Heavy sweating
- Headache
- Rapid breathing and heartbeat
- Extreme thirst
- Dark urine and decreased urination
If you experience any of these symptoms during extreme heat, immediately move to a cool place and drink liquids; water is best.
However, there is a difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat stroke is a lot more serious than heat exhaustion in many ways. Heat stroke occurs want to body cannot regulate its temperature. The human body execrates sweat to cool itself down. However, if your body temperature rises too fast, about 104 F (40 C) or higher according to the Mayo Clinic, seek medical attention immediately if you are experiencing the following symptoms:
- High body temperature
- Confusion and lack of coordination
- Dizziness/Fainting
- No sweating, but very hot, red skin
While waiting for help—cool down the person right away by:
- moving them to a cool place, if you can;
- applying cold water to large areas of the skin; and
- fanning the person as much as possible.
Another way to protect yourself from extreme heat is to know how hot the weather is going to be before going outside. Tune into your local weather forecast regularly.
If you have an air conditioner, make sure it works properly. If you don't have an air conditioner, find a cool spot close by where you can cool off for a few hours on very hot days.
Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.
Take cool showers or baths until you feel refreshed.
Plan outdoor activities for cooler days, or choose a cooler location, like a place with air conditioning or with tree shade.
Most importantly, never leave children or pets alone in a parked vehicle.
