02

Jul
2015

Hot! Hot! Hot! in the City

July 2nd, 2015 | by admin admin | in Safety Advice |    19   

Temperature records—64! over the June 26 weekend—have been tumbling across B.C. And the forecast calls for more of the same. Children, pets and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the soaring temperatures. How are you coping with the latest heat wave?

Over-exposure to heat and over-exertion in heat can lead to heat stroke, exhaustion, fainting, edema (swelling), rash and cramps. Symptoms may include:

• Cramps or muscle tightening, usually in the legs or abdomen, but not always
• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Rapid heartbeat
• Extreme thirst (dry mouth or sticky saliva)
• Skin that is redder or paler than usual, or moist skin
• Irritable, aggressive or bizarre behaviour
• Decreased urination with unusually dark, yellow urine

If you experience these symptoms, move to a cool place and drink plenty of liquids, ideally water.

If a person has a high body temperature and is unconscious, confused or no longer sweating, call 9-1-1 immediately. In the meantime, move the person to a cool place, if possible, and ask them to loosen their clothing. Apply cold water to large areas of their body and clothing, and offer cool water to drink, in sips. Fan them as much as possible. In a severe heat emergency, place covered ice packs in each arm pit and on the back of the neck.

Here are some other tips:

• Keep tabs on weather forecasts and alerts.
• Keep in touch with friends, family and neighbours, in case you or they need assistance.
• Ensure your air conditioner or fans work properly, or find a nearby air-conditioned spot (e.g. a library, mall or supermarket) where you can cool off.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of cool fluids, especially water, before you feel thirsty.
• Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing.
• Use an air conditioner to cool at least one room in your home.
• Avoid using your oven.
• Block the sun by closing your awnings, curtains or blinds during the day.
• If safe, leave windows open at night.
• Take cool showers as needed.
• Never leave any person or pet inside a parked vehicle.
• Slow down and don’t work, play or exercise too long at a time.
• Plan outdoor activities for the cooler times of the day. Walk your dog or go to the park in the morning or evening. While outside, seek shade. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

Sources:

It’s Way Too Hot! Protect Yourself from Extreme Heat. Health Canada.

Heat-Related Emergencies: Staying Cool and Hydrated in Canadian Summers. Canadian Red Cross.

Related article:

Preventing Heat Stress at Work. WorkSafe BC.

Note: This blog discusses general safety and security topics. It is not intended to provide comprehensive advice or guidance. In all matters of personal safety and security, we encourage readers to research topics in depth and consult a security professional about specific concerns.

Radius Security Vancouver, West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Richmond, Surrey, Langley, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Ladner, Delta, Tsawwassen

©