With a heat warning being issued by Environment Canada for much of the region, the City of Nanaimo says it’s taking action to help everyone stay cool.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada temperatures are expected to reach 31 degrees through Monday and could have drastic impacts on people who suffer from breathing, a chronic medical condition, and other elements.
The city says they’ve set up several cooling stations to help those who aren’t able to stay cool with three cooling stations located at Vancouver Island Regional Library locations located across the city.
They add it’s important to stay hydrated, dress appropriately, avoid strenuous activities, look for shade, and avoid hot cars, especially during a heat warning.
According to Island Health, staying cool and checking in on those who live alone, friends or family could help to mitigate early signs of heat exhaustion, heat-stroke.
They say it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat emergencies including severe headache, muscle cramps, extreme thirst, dark-coloured urine, and alert emergency services if you experience any of these symptoms.
“Heat stroke is a medical emergency, in the event of an emergency call 911,” they say in a media release.
For a complete list of ways to stay cool and cooling centre addresses visit the city’s website.