Richmond and Metro Vancouver residents are reminded to stay cool as a heat warning has been issued for this week.
Temperatures in Richmond City Centre, Terra Nova, and East Richmond are expected to hit a high of mid-30s from Sunday through Wednesday, according to Weatherhood.
Areas near the water and coastline such as Steveston Village and Steveston Harbour are expected to see slightly cooler temperatures in the low 30s.
High indoor temperatures are one of the biggest causes of heat-related illnesses, according to Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH).
”Once a susceptible individual is exposed to sustained high temperatures, it can take many hours for their bodies to cool and for physiological strain to decrease,” said VCH.
People who are at risk for heat-related illnesses include seniors 65 and older, people with diabetes, heart or respiratory disease, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders.
Young children and individuals who are pregnant or have limited mobility are also at high risk for health concerns during high temperatures.
The City of Richmond has not “formally implemented its cooling centre strategy” as this is a heat warning and not an extreme heat situation, according to city spokesperson Clay Adams.
However, Richmond libraries and community centres as well as public spaces such as shopping centres will be open to "offer relief."
“We also have spray parks and pools open and remind people to stay hydrated and to check on family, friends, neighbours and pets to make sure they are okay in this hotter-than-usual weather.”
To keep cool, VCH suggests all households have working air conditioning with windows and blinds closed during the day and opened at night to keep homes cool.
Drinking plenty of water and non-alcoholic liquids to stay hydrated is important. Staying in the shade and taking a cool shower or bath will also help keep the body cool.
Signs of heat exhaustion
Heavy sweating, severe headache, muscle cramps, extreme thirst and dark urine are signs a person needs to cool down.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should seek a cooler environment, drink plenty of water, rest and use water to cool your body.
Signs of heat stroke
Loss of consciousness, disorientation, confusion, severe nausea or vomiting and very dark urine or no urine are signs of a medical emergency.
Call 911 or your local emergency number if you are caring for someone who displays symptoms of heat stroke. Then take immediate action to cool them down while waiting for help to arrive.
Information on how to handle hot weather in Richmond can be found on the city's website.
