Being Prepared for Extreme Heat and Wildfires
As we enter the warmer season, it’s important to be prepared for extreme heat and potential wildfire emergencies. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines to stay safe and informed.
Emergency Preparedness
- Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with supplies to last at least 72 hours. Keep this kit accessible for quick evacuation if needed.
- Community Check-Ins: All NCARES employees are encouraged to check on community members, particularly those who may be more vulnerable.
- Stay Updated: Information about designated public cooling spaces and filtered air access will be provided as it becomes available. Keep an eye on your building’s notice boards and email for the latest updates.
Risk Factors for Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat-related illnesses can affect anyone, but certain groups are especially vulnerable:
- Individuals over 65 years old
- Infants and young children
- Pregnant individuals
- People with chronic illnesses (e.g., respiratory issues, heart conditions, psychiatric conditions)
- Those experiencing homelessness
- People working in hot environments
- Individuals living alone or in high-rise apartments
- People without air conditioning or fans
- Those on medications that increase heat sensitivity
Reducing Extreme Heat Exposure
If you can’t access an air-conditioned space, follow these tips to stay cool:
- Wear wet clothing to help lower your body temperature.
- Use water-soaked cloths or cooling packs on your neck and wrists.
- Soak in a cool (not cold) bath or sit with your legs in cool water.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Eat cold foods like salads and fruits.
- Use air conditioning units if available.
- Cool Kit (bchousing.org)
- Look for information on cooling centres in your area.
- Wellness card for tenants – Tips to Beat the Heat (bchousing.org)
- Tips to Beat the Heat (bchousing.org)
- BCCDC
Wildfire Smoke
Wildfire smoke combined with extreme heat can cause:
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Difficulty breathing and shortness of breath
- Lung irritation
- Fatigue
- Eye irritation
Severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or chest pain, require immediate medical attention. Call 911 or visit the nearest Emergency Department.
During air quality warnings, follow these steps to reduce risk:
- Limit outdoor activities.
- Drink plenty of water.
- If you have chronic health conditions, work with your healthcare provider to create a management plan for smoky conditions.
- Seek indoor spaces with filtered air (e.g., libraries, shopping malls, community centers).
- Keep windows and doors closed (if extreme heat is not a concern).
- Avoid activities that increase indoor and outdoor air pollution (e.g., frying foods, sweeping, using gas-powered appliances).
- Use portable air purifiers if available, running them continuously with doors and windows closed.
- Public Weather Alerts for British Columbia
- Air Quality Health Index– View Air Quality Health Index readings for your area.
Emergency Grab and Go Kit
Prepare your emergency kit well in advance and ensure it is easily reachable for quick evacuation. Each person should have their own kit, ideally stored in a backpack for convenience. Use a wheeled tub or chest for food and water.
Supply Kit Checklist:
- Phone charger, battery bank, or inverter
- Three days to one week of non-perishable food and four liters of water per person per day
- Extra batteries
- Map with at least two evacuation routes
- Prescriptions or special medications
- Seasonal clothing, sturdy footwear, emergency blanket
- Extra eyeglasses or contact lenses
- Car keys, credit cards, cash, or traveler’s checks
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Battery or crank-powered radio and extra batteries
- Sanitation supplies
- Copies of important documents (e.g., birth certificates, passports)
- Dust masks (if prone to earthquakes)
- 3-layer masks and/or respirator for heavy smoke
- Whistle
- Plastic sheet and duct tape (for shelter)
- Pet food and water
Items to take if time allows:
- Valuables
- Family photos and irreplaceable items
- Personal computer information (hard drives, disks
- Chargers for electronic devices
Keep a sturdy pair of shoes and a flashlight near your bed for quick access during night-time evacuations.
City of Nelson’s Emergency Notification System
The City of Nelson’s Emergency Notification System provides critical information during emergencies. You can receive notifications via mobile app, text, call, email, or landline. Notifications include emergency details, affected areas, and instructions.
Sign up here: Nelson Emergency Notification System
Additional Resources: Getting Ready Before a Wildfire – Province of British Columbia