It is important to take precautions to avoid suffering heat-related illnesses. Markham recommends the following based on Health Canada guidelines:
• Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, to decrease your risk of dehydration.
• Watch for the symptoms of heat illness: dizziness/fainting; nausea/vomiting; rapid breathing and heartbeat; extreme thirst; decreased urination with unusually dark urine.
• Frequently call to check in with friends, neighbours, and elderly family members, especially those who are chronically ill, to make sure they are cool and hydrated.
• Call and check in on friends, family members, and neighbours who may be living in a building without air conditioning. It is especially important if they are elderly.
• Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day or avoid outdoor activities if you have health concerns.
• Keep people and pets in your care out of parked vehicles and direct sunlight.
• Spend a few hours in a cool place while practicing physical distancing, such as a tree-shaded area.
• Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric and ensure you wear a hat and sunglasses.
• Avoid sun exposure—shade yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat or using an umbrella.
• Physical distance outdoors or stay cool at home if you feel discomfort wearing a face mask in the heat.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Prepare meals that don't need to be cooked in your oven.
• Block sunlight by opening awnings, and closing curtains and blinds during the day.
• If you are taking medication or have an existing health condition, ask your doctor or pharmacist if heat exposure increases your health risk and follow their advice.
• If you have an air conditioner with a thermostat, keep it set to somewhere between 22ºC (72ºF) and 26ºC (79ºF), which will reduce your energy costs and provide you with needed relief.
• If you have a window air conditioner, cool only one room where you can go for heat relief.
