The effects of climate change pose risks to the health of Canadians and New Brunswickers. As climate change increases, it is expected that extreme heat events will become more frequent even here in New Brunswick. Experience from around the world has shown that extreme heat events can have lethal consequences.
People most vulnerable and at risk to health effects related to extreme heat are:
- Young children and older adults,
- The homeless and socially isolated,
- People with chronic health conditions, and
- People using certain medications.
New Brunswickers are reminded to take the following actions to prevent heat illness during any level of heat alert:
- Drink plenty of cool fluids, especially water, before feeling thirsty.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-coloured clothing.
- Keep the sun out with curtains or blinds.
- Plan outdoor activities around cooler parts of the day.
- Avoid exposure to the sun.
- Never leave someone or a pet in your care inside a parked car.
- Spend a few hours in a cool place such as a shaded park.
- Frequently check-in with vulnerable family members or neighbours to make sure they are coping well.
- Avoid using the stove for cooking a meal.
- Take cool showers or baths until refreshed. Use your air conditioner if you have one.
- Make arrangements to spend time or sleep in a cooler place.
- Sprinkle clothing with water.
- Splash cool water on your face and back of neck.
- Organizers of sporting events should modify the rules to accommodate additional water breaks or consider rescheduling outdoor activities.
Heat alert advisories for the various cities and regions will be issued on the Government of NB account, @Gov_NB, and the provincial government’s Facebook page.
