Be prepared
Safety tips from Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service on EXTREME HEAT
The first step in being prepared for emergencies is to know your risks.
In this monthly series, Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service is sharing steps you can take to be prepared for the risks that are more likely to occur here, including extreme heat.
It’s been a hot summer, and extreme heat can be dangerous for everyone, especially outdoor workers, older adults, some people with disabilities, those who are pregnant, pets and children, particularly infants. Do you know what to do to stay safe during a heat wave?
Preparing for extreme heat
Monitor alerts from Environment Canada and check the City's website and corporate social media channels for updates.
Close blinds and curtains on hot, sunny days.
Bring plenty of water when you leave the house.
Make sure you have a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, and full UVA and UVB protection sunglasses.
Purchase sunscreen and lip balm with SPF 15 or higher.
During extreme heat
It is important to have ways to cool down on a hot summer day. If you feel dizzy, weak or overheated, you should:
go to a cool place
sit or lie down
drink water
wash your face with cool water
avoid exercising during the hottest parts of the day
If your symptoms persist, seek medical help immediately. Be sure to check on older family members regularly. Never leave pets or children in hot cars.
When indoors …
Stay inside to limit sun exposure.
Keep your windows covered during the hottest times of the day. You can cover windows with tinfoil-covered cardboard to reflect sunlight, and close your curtains and blinds.
Take frequent cool showers or baths.
Stay on lower floors if there is no air conditioning and use fans.
Drink plenty of water and eat light, regular meals. Avoid consuming salt, caffeinated beverages and alcohol.
Avoid using large appliances such as stoves, ovens, washers and dryers. Prepare meals that do not require cooking or heating.
When outdoors …
Limit outdoor activity especially during the hottest part of the day.
Spend the hottest part of the day in air-conditioned buildings.
Stay cool in shaded spaces.
Drink water every 15 to 20 minutes, even if you’re not thirsty.
Dress in light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and protective sunglasses.
Apply sunscreen and lip balm with SPF 15 or higher at least 20 minutes before going outside. Reapply often, especially after being in the water.
Visit one of Vaughan’s splashpads to cool down.
After extreme heat
Check if you need to re-stock your sunscreen or protective gear.
Check the forecast for upcoming heat waves and monitor alerts from Environment Canada.
For more information and to review the emergency risks to Vaughan, visit vaughan.ca/EmergencyRisks.
For updates and news as they happen, subscribe to Vaughan News and follow the official corporate channels on X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
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