As the weather gets warmer, it's important to prepare for potential emergency events that may occur such as wildfires and extreme heat. These events can affect everyone, but some community members such as Elders, young children, and people with pre-existing conditions are more vulnerable to related health risks. Taking steps to prepare for these emergencies in advance helps protect your health and supports the safety and well-being of your loved ones and community.
Extreme heat
British Columbia is getting hotter each year, increasing the risk of heat-related health emergencies like heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Extreme heat occurs when already high temperatures rise even further above seasonal norms, with indoor temperatures above 26°C and outdoor temperatures over 31°C posing health risks. Extreme heat warnings are issued three to four days before the hottest temperatures occur. It is good practice to check the weather daily when it is hot outside.
Staying safe during extreme heat
Planning ahead can help reduce risk and keep your household and community safe. Here are some ways to prepare:
- If you are or someone is experiencing symptoms such as rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, extreme thirst, altered levels of consciousness, call 911 or your local emergency number.
- If it is not safe to stay home consider going to friends or family's, the mall, library, a green space in the shade or a designated cooling center. Find a cooling centre through your community or regional resources, or use the interactive map,
EmergencyMapBC and view the Hot Weather Resources filter.
- Identify an extreme heat buddy who can check on you and reach out to for support.
- Close your curtains and blinds.
- Sleep in a wet t-shirt or sheet.
- Take cool baths or showers to cool your internal temperature down.
- It is critical to drink plenty of water during an extreme heat event. As your body sweats you rapidly lose water and electrolytes which contributes to overheating.
- Lower your activity level and avoid strenuous activity. If you have any activities plan, try to plan them early or late in the day when it is generally cooler.
- You may be eligible for a free portable air conditioner from BC Hydro.
Check your eligibility here.
Staying safe during wildfire season
In BC, more than 1,600 wildfires occur each year. Wildfires are fast-moving, uncontrolled fires that spread through forests and grassy areas and can be sparked by natural causes like lightning or human activities such as campfires. Wildfires can create hazardous conditions that include poor air quality due to smoke, elevated temperatures, and the potential for rapid evacuation.
Reducing your exposure to smoke
The best way to protect your health during wildfire season is to limit your exposure to smoke. Here are some ways you can do so:
- Use a portable HEPA air cleaner to help keep indoor air clean.
- Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.
- Visit cooler indoor spaces in your community such as libraries, friendship centres, community cooling centers or designated clean air shelters.
- Wear an N95 respirator when working outdoors.
While everyone can benefit from reducing their exposure to smoke, some people may be more at-risk. If you need
Air purifier support during wildfire season, please contact your community health centre. Requests will then be forwarded to the FNHA.
Build a grab-and-go bag
In the event of any emergency, it is crucial to follow all evacuation alerts and orders and act quickly. Stay updated through local news and
EmergencyInfoBC. To be better prepared for an emergency or evacuation it is advisable to create a grab-and-go bag including items you will need in the immediate period following such an event.
Some things to include in such a kit could include:
- Food (non-perishable and read to eat) and water for 72 hours
- Phone charger and battery bank
- Small battery-powered radio
- Battery-powered and flashlight and extra batteries
- Small first-aid kit and personal medications – Devil's Club Rub, Arthritis Salve, Anti-inflammatory Stinging Nettle Tea
- Personal toiletries and items, such as an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
- Copy of your emergency plan and important documents such as insurance papers and identification
- Cash in small bills
- Seasonal clothing and an emergency blanket
- Whistle
- Pen and notepad
Contact FNHA Environmental Public Health Services
Email: environmental.health@fnha.ca or call your FNHA Regional Office
Emergencies after hours: Phone 1-844-666-0711 or email ephs.afterhours@fnha.ca
Calls/emails received after 10:00 p.m. will be returned the next day at 6:00 a.m.
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