Alberta is no stranger to extreme weather, and when hot temperatures hit, staying cool becomes essential for our health and well-being. Here are some practical tips to help you and your loved ones stay comfortable and safe during those hot days.
Shield Your Home from the Heat
One of the simplest ways to keep your home cool is by blocking out the sun. Consider installing curtains, blinds, or awnings on your windows. Keeping them closed during the day can significantly reduce the amount of heat entering your home. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, covering your windows with cardboard can also help deflect the heat.
Optimize Your Cool Spaces
Identify the coolest areas in your home and think about how you can make them even cooler. These spaces might become your go-to spots for rest and sleep during a heat wave. Rearrange furniture or add cooling elements like fans or portable air conditioners to these areas to maximize comfort.
Use Fans Wisely
Fans can be a great way to circulate cooler air, especially during the late evening and early morning hours when the outside temperature drops. However, fans should not be relied upon as the primary method of cooling during extreme heat events. Instead, use them to complement other cooling strategies.
Consider Air Conditioning
If it’s within your means, installing a window air conditioner in at least one room can provide significant relief during a heat wave. This room can serve as a cool retreat for you and your family.
Know Your Local Cooling Options
If your home doesn’t have adequate indoor cooling, it’s important to know where you can go to find air conditioning. Prepare a list of nearby air-conditioned spaces or cooling centres that meet your needs, such as being wheelchair accessible, having activities for children, or allowing pets. Also, plan how you will get there—whether by your own vehicle, with family or friends, or using public transportation.
Public places with air conditioning can include:
· Shopping malls
· Libraries
· Swimming pools and spray parks
· Movie theatres
· Community recreation centres
· Places of worship
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water before you feel thirsty, and eating hydrating foods such as fruits and fresh vegetables can also help maintain your fluid levels.
Extreme heat can cause serious negative health impacts. It’s important to watch for signs of heat illness. To learn more about heat-related illnesses and what symptoms to watch for, click here.
Different regions of Alberta experience varying levels of extreme heat.
To learn more about heat warnings in Alberta, click here.
With files from the Alberta Government: Extreme Heat Program
