Dr. Brandon Yau Public Health Resident Physician with Interior Health says there definitely is a specific age group and people with health conditions that suffer more from the heat.
He said Interior Health learned a lot from the heatwave back in 2021 in terms of whom is most vulnerable.
“Very young children and infants, as well as seniors, pregnant people, people who have chronic health conditions that includes those with kidney disease, diabetes, and heart disease.”
Yau noted that they also found that people who are kind of marginally housed, people who are living alone, and people with certain mental health conditions are also at increased risk.
He said if you know someone who falls into any of those categories to develop a system to check in on them and provide support if needed.
People who work outdoors are also at risk.
Yau said if it’s unavoidable and you do have work outside, there are several ways you can avoid heat related illness.
“Take plenty of breaks. Try to seek shade as much as possible as well as keeping hydrated. And monitor yourself and your co-workers to make sure that everyone is safe and that no one is over heating, that’s very important.”
Yau noted its also important that everyone avoid doing physical activities during peak sun hours, drink plenty of water and take cold showers to cool your body as well.