(NC) Heat waves are on the rise. That’s when we experience elevated temperatures and humidity for a few days. Extreme heat can harm everyone’s health, but some groups are more at risk. Here are five groups that should be extra cautious during a heat wave.
Older adults
As we age, our body’s ability to deal with extreme heat decreases, and we have more difficulty adjusting to sudden temperature changes. With older age, we may also take certain medications and have other chronic diseases that may affect our ability to regulate our body temperature.
During heat waves, older adults should spend as much time as possible in a cooler or air-conditioned location such as a basement, library or community centre, and stay hydrated.
They should also monitor themselves for signs of heat illness, including dizziness, nausea, headache, extreme thirst and rapid breathing or heartbeat. Since these symptoms can rapidly evolve into life-threatening emergencies, older adults should have someone check in on them daily.
Children
Everyone knows that kids are constantly on the move. They also don’t always pay attention to their surroundings. Teach your kids to recognize the signs that they’re overheating, listed above. If they’re experiencing these, they should stop what they’re doing, find a place to cool off, drink water and notify an adult.
People living with pre-existing health conditions
If you have respiratory issues, a heart condition, a mental illness, Parkinson’s disease, hypertension or another pre-existing health condition, you may be more at risk to the effects of extreme heat.
Speak to your health-care provider about the risks of extreme heat to your health and spend as much time as possible in a cool or air-conditioned location during heat waves. If that’s not possible at home, spend as much time as you can in a cool public space, such as an air-conditioned mall, library or community centre.
Outdoor workers
Many jobs require working outdoors on hot days. Unless you’re required to wear heavy safety gear, choose loose-fitting, breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Try to stay in the shade as much as possible and stay hydrated – drinking water is best.
Athletes
Many summer sports are played outdoors. During a heat wave, try to schedule games and practices early in the morning or later in the evening when the weather is cooler, or postpone until the heat passes. And remember to stay hydrated.
Learn more about how to protect yourself during a heat wave at canada.ca/health.
