Dealing with heat waves and fires in the Pacific Northwest can require special strategies to stay safe and healthy. Here are some summer tips to help you cope:
1. Stay hydrated:
- Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks as they can dehydrate you.
Beach Days: Pack plenty of water along with your beach gear, and take regular water breaks while enjoying the sun and sand. And definitely remember your sunscreen – ocean breezes can mask the severity of the UV rays.
Summer sports: Whether playing tennis, soccer or going for a run, bring a water bottle and take frequent hydration breaks.
2. Stay cool indoors:
- Use air conditioning if possible. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to public places that do (e.g. recreation centres, shopping malls or libraries).
- Use fans, and keep windows and doors closed during the hottest parts of the day.
- Take cool showers or baths, or hit the pool if you have one at your hotel.
Visiting museums: Spend time exploring local museums to stay cool while enjoying art, history and science exhibits.
Indoor skating rinks: Go ice skating or roller skating indoors to have fun, stay active and stay cool.
3. Limit outdoor activities:
- Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- If you must be outside, take frequent breaks, find shade and wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing.
- When making plans, check the outdoor air quality, especially if wildfire smoke is present.
Early morning yoga: Join outdoor yoga classes scheduled early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
Sunset hikes: Plan hikes for the late afternoon or early evening to enjoy cooler temperatures and beautiful sunsets. Forest hikes can also offer a cooling respite from the heat, with the forest canopy often offering a few degrees’ reprieve from the warmer temps.
4. Protect yourself from the sun:
- Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Use umbrellas or other shading devices when outside.
Outdoor festivals: When attending music festivals or fairs, wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Seek shade whenever possible.
Boating trips: While out on the water, wear protective clothing and reapply sunscreen regularly. Use a canopy or umbrella for shade.
5. Know the signs of heat-related illnesses:
- Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea and muscle cramps.
- Severe symptoms include hot, dry skin, confusion and unconsciousness. Seek medical attention immediately if these occur. Learn more from Health Canada.
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