Extreme heat during the COVID-19 pandemic
| During extreme heat events, public health authorities generally recommend that people cool off by visiting an air-conditioned place, such as a theatre or municipal library. At the moment, however, since many public air-conditioned places are closed due to the pandemic, try to spend a few hours a day in a cooler or air-conditioned area in your home and follow the measures indicated below. These instructions are particularly relevant for people who need to isolate themselves right now. If you do find a public place with air conditioning, remember that you must practise physical distancing (at least 2 metres from others) and follow the required  health recommendations. |
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Groups more at risk for heat-related problems:
- People 65 and over (especially those living in places without air conditioning);
- People playing sports or working outdoors or in environments where the industrial activity produces heat;
- Infants and young children (0 to 4 years of age);
- People who live alone and those with reduced autonomy;
- People with a chronic disease or mental health issue.
Children 0 to 4
- Never leave a child alone in a car or poorly ventilated room, even for a few minutes.
- To learn more about the precautions to take for children (0 to 4 years old), read the following document for parents and caregivers.
WAYS TO BEAT THE HEAT
This advice is relevant even during the COVID-19 pandemic
How to prevent heat-related problems?
- Drink plenty of water, without waiting to be thirsty. Or follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the amount of water you should drink.
- Spend 2 or 3 hours per day in a cool room in your home, ideally one that is air conditioned.
- Take at least one cool shower or bath per day, or cool off with a moist towel, even at night.
- Close the curtains or blinds when the sun is shining and, if possible, air out your home at night when the temperature is cooler.
- Avoid beverages that are high in caffeine, sugar or alcohol, since they dehydrate the body.
- Reduce physical effort.
- Wear lightweight clothing.
To learn more, consult the information leaflet entitled It’s really hot!” (PDF).
What symptoms can affect adults?
- Headaches
- Muscle cramps
- Swollen hands, feet and ankles
- Onset of small red pimples called a “heat rash”
- Signs of dehydration:
- Reduced need to urinate
- Dark urine
- Dry skin
- Rapid pulse and breathing
What symptoms can affect children?
- Dry lips or mouth
- Headaches
- Sunken eyes with dark circles
- Dark urine and reduced urination
- Vomiting and diarrhea
If these symptoms develop, call Info-Santé at 811 or speak with a health professional.
Fever, dry, red and hot or pale and cool skin, dizziness, vertigo, confused and illogical speech, odd behaviour or generalized malaise, could indicate a case of heat stroke. This is a medical emergency. Call 911 for immediate assistance.
How can you help those who are more vulnerable?
- Check in on them regularly.
- Make sure they are following the prevention tips and offer to get them help, if need be.
- Make sure they have the chance to spend time in a cool or air-conditioned place.
Where to cool off in Laval?
For more information, visit the Ville de Laval website.
Rapport d'enquête épidémiologique - Vague de chaleur de l'été 2018