Staying Healthy in the Heat

Organization: Health Canada

Year: 2024

Staying Healthy in the Heat

The infographic “Staying Healthy in the Heat” offers clear, visually engaging guidance for protecting health during extreme heat events. It outlines the primary warning signs of heat-related illness—such as dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps, headache, heavy sweating, rapid heartbeat, and dark urine—and differentiates between heat exhaustion and the more severe heat stroke. The graphic emphasizes at-risk groups, including older adults, infants, individuals with chronic conditions or special medications, and outdoor workers. It provides practice-oriented safety tips: monitor local weather alerts; ensure air conditioning functionality; identify and use cool, shaded spaces; wear light, breathable clothing; take cool showers; and stay hydrated. The infographic also stresses the importance of checking in with vulnerable neighbors or family members and avoiding leaving children or pets in parked vehicles. In the event of heat stroke, it highlights the necessity of emergency response: move the person to a cool area, apply cold water, fan them, and call 911 immediately. This resource enhances public awareness and resilience as temperatures rise.