File photo (Image credit: CFJC Today).

By CFJC Today

BEAT THE HEAT

A guide to staying cool during heat events

Aug 15, 2023 | 11:32 AM

KAMLOOPS — With a heat warning in effect in Kamloops and area through most of the week, residents are being reminded on how to remain cool and safe amid the higher temperatures.

Indoors

In homes without air conditioning, B.C.’s Ministry of Public Safety says heat builds indoors over the course of a few days. It may stay hotter inside than outside overnight. Without air conditioning, the longer the heat lasts, the more dangerous it becomes.

Residents who have air conditioning are encouraged to turn their systems on. Those who don’t are encouraged to:

• stay with a friend or family member that has air conditioning or cooler spaces
• sleep in the coldest room of their home
• take cold baths or showers
• drink plenty of water (sugary and alcoholic drinks cause dehydration)
• make ice and prepare jugs of cool water
• keep windows closed between 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.; open windows at 8:00 p.m. to allow cooler air in and use fans to move air throughout the house

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To make their homes more resistant to heat, residents are encouraged to install a window air conditioner in at least one room, install thermal curtains or window coverings and have fans to move cooler air indoors during the later evening and early morning hours.

However, the province reminds that fans alone can’t reduce body temperatures or prevent heat-related illness.

Outdoors

For residents who need or want to be away from their homes, they’re encouraged to visit public spaces such as community centres, libraries, parks and shaded green spaces and shopping malls.

Within the City of Kamloops, the Sandman Centre is open as a cooling centre from noon until 8:00 p.m. during heat events. Additionally, the Thompson Nicola Regional Library says all of its 12 branches are equipped with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

To stay cool during outdoor activities, residents can:

• lower their activity level
• do errands early in the morning or late in the day
• stay in the shade and wear a hat and protective clothing
• use sunscreen and UV-protective eyewear
• seek cooler, breezier areas such as large parks near trees and water
• the province also reminds residents with children or pets to never leave them in a parked car during hot weather.

Risks

According to B.C.’s Ministry of Public Safety, the following people are most at risk to heat emergencies, especially if they don’t have access to air conditioning:

• aged 65 year and older
• live alone
• pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or respiratory disease
• mental illness such as schizophrenia, depression or anxiety
• substance use disorders
• marginally housed
• work in hot environments
• pregnant
• infants and young children
• limited mobility

Anyone who’s experiencing overheating symptoms, such as rapid breathing and heartbeat, extreme thirst and decreased urination is encouraged to take steps to cool down and seek emergency care, such as seeking medical attention or calling 9-1-1.