When temperatures are on the rise during the increasingly common heat waves, it can be particularly dangerous for seniors and those with chronic conditions who don’t have air conditioning.
There were hundreds of sudden deaths reported across the Lower Mainland in late June.
Medical health officers are again strongly recommending that folks take precautions.
A ‘Heat Warning’ went out on Aug. 10 from Environment Canada advising that temperatures will be on the rise from Thursday Aug. 12 through to Sunday Aug. 15.
While temperatures are not expected to reach the record-smashing levels seen in late June, they will be in the mid- to high-30s.
City of Chilliwack has once again opened several cooling centres.
They will be open noon to 6 p.m. until the heat warning is lifted at:
• Evergreen Hall – 9291 Corbould Street (Slesse and Minto Rooms)
• Sardis Sports Complex – 5725 Tyson Road (Sheet #3)
• Chilliwack Coliseum – 45323 Hodgins Ave (entrance off of Hodgins Avenue)
• Tourism Chilliwack – 44150 Luckakuck Way (Picnic area is outdoors, pet friendly, with misting station and water or pets)
City of Chilliwack is unable to provide transportation to the cooling centres. Pets in kennels or carriers are welcome at the cooling centres, which will also serve as clean air shelters. These locations use MERV 11 and 13 high particulate filters, which provide high efficiency filtration from poor air quality and wildfire smoke.
Air quality conditions can change quickly. Higher temperatures mean greater risk of heat-related illnesses. Drink plenty of water, even before you feel thirsty, and seek out cool places. Call, text, or check in on those who may be more vulnerable to the heat, and never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.
READ MORE: Records broken the week of June 28
Symptoms of heat-related illness can include thirst, dizziness, confusion, weakness and fainting or collapsing, including loss of consciousness.
Check out more at fraserhealth.ca/sunsafety on health impacts of heat. Or call for more information on heat-related illness, HealthLink BC at 811. Fraser Health Virtual Care can be reached by calling 1-800-314-0999 or over chat from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week at www.fraserhealth.ca/virtualcare
READ MORE: 100s in medical distress
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