Heat wave tips for Canadians

While many parts of Canada enjoy relatively mild summers, extreme heat events are becoming more common and more intense. A prolonged heat wave can affect your health, put added strain on your home and send energy bills soaring if you're not prepared.

Whether you're dealing with a few hot days or a week of record-breaking temperatures, here are some practical ways to stay safe, comfortable and energy-efficient.

Protect yourself and your family

Extreme heat can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially for older adults, young children, people with chronic health conditions and outdoor workers.

During a heat wave, keep these tips in mind:

• Drink water regularly – Stay hydrated even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Limit strenuous outdoor activities – Avoid heavy exertion during the hottest part of the day, typically between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Wear the right clothing – Choose lightweight, light-coloured options to help stay cool.
• Protect yourself outdoors – Use sunscreen and seek shade whenever possible.
• Check on those around you – Reach out to elderly relatives, neighbours and anyone who may be vulnerable to heat-related illness.
• Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle – Even a few minutes can be dangerous.

Common warning signs of heat-related illness include dizziness, headache, nausea, confusion, rapid heartbeat and excessive sweating.

Keep your home cooler

You don't need to run your air conditioner constantly to make a noticeable difference. Try these simple strategies:

• Block the sun – Close blinds, curtains and drapes on windows that receive direct sunlight. Blackout curtains can significantly reduce indoor temperatures.
• Use fans wisely – Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise during summer to push cool air downward. Portable fans can help circulate air throughout your space.
• Reduce indoor heat sources – Avoid using ovens, dryers and dishwashers during the hottest parts of the day. Consider grilling outdoors or preparing no-cook meals instead.
• Cool your home at night – Open windows during cooler evening and early morning hours to let fresh air circulate, then close them before temperatures rise again.

Help your air conditioner work efficiently

Your air conditioner works hardest during extreme heat. A little maintenance can improve performance and reduce energy costs:

• Replace or clean HVAC filters regularly – Clean filters help your system run more efficiently.
• Clear outdoor condenser units – Keep them free of debris, weeds and leaves.
• Remove cottonwood or poplar fluff – This can accumulate on outdoor units and restrict airflow.
• Keep vents and registers clear – Make sure furniture and curtains aren't blocking airflow.
• Use a programmable or smart thermostat – Managing cooling schedules can reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort.

Even raising your thermostat by one or two degrees can help reduce energy consumption without much impact on comfort.

Stay informed

Pay attention to local weather alerts and heat warnings. Many municipalities open cooling centres, splash pads, libraries and community centres during extreme heat events.

A little preparation can help you stay safer, more comfortable and more energy-efficient when temperatures climb. For more information on coping during heat waves, visit the Red Cross Canada heat wave resource page.