During a Heat Event

• Personal Care

  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Dress for the heat. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored, breathable clothing.
  • Stay informed. Check the weather forecast and heat alert information. 
  • Check in with others. Check on others. Notice how you feel and watch for signs of heat illness.
• Inside

  • Keep shades and blinds closed during the day.
  • If you have air conditioning, turn it on. It does not need to be going full strength to help you stay safe.
  • If you do not have air conditioning, move to a pre-identified alternate location with air conditioning or cooler spaces.
    • Close windows to trap cooler air inside and open windows at night to let cool air in.
  • Keep digital thermometers available to accurately measure indoor temperatures (31°C or higher is dangerous for vulnerable people).
  • Sleep in the coolest room of your residence.
  • Sleep with a wet sheet or in a wet shirt.
  • Take cool baths or showers to draw heat from your body.
• Outside

  • Lower your physical activity level.
  • If you must do errands, do them early or late in the day.
  • Never leave children or pets in a parked car.
  • Avoid direct sun by staying in the shade and wearing a hat and protective clothing.
  • Use sunscreen and UV-protective eyewear.
  • Seek cooler, breezier areas when outdoors, such as large parks near to trees and water.
  • If you work in a hot environment, discuss and act on ways to decrease heat exposure with your employer and coworkers.
  • Pets: Make sure you have lots of fresh water for your pets and that they are in cool locations. Stay in shady areas and avoid asphalt and pavement; those surfaces can burn paws.