Extreme Heat Safety

The Village of Lytton and other communities in B.C. are experiencing longer, hotter, and more frequent heat events, which can cause heat-related illnesses or death.

Find information and resources to help prepare for extreme heat events.

Heat alerts

Environment and Climate Change Canada issue two types of heat alerts:

  • A heat warning means temperatures are higher than usual and you should take steps to stay cool
  • An extreme heat emergency means temperatures are expected to rise day after day and stay high overnight. This is when the risk of serious illness is highest.

Find alerts

How to prepare before hot weather

  • Keep a digital thermometer at home to track indoor temperatures.
  • Identify the coolest room in your home and plan to sleep there during heat events.
  • Use blinds, curtains, or coverings to block the sun.
  • Open windows at night when outdoor air is cooler, and close them in the morning.
  • Make a plan to check on neighbours, friends, or family during heat events.
  • Review medication guidance with your health care provider or pharmacist.

What to do during a heat event

Keep your home cool

  • Close windows, doors, and blinds during the day.
  • Avoid using ovens or stoves.
  • Spend time in the coolest room of your home.
  • Open windows in the evening when outdoor air cools.
  • Cool yourself down with fans.

If your home becomes very hot, consider spending time in cooler public places like shaded parks. 

Cool your body

  • Drink water regularly throughout the day.
  • Wear light, loose clothing.
  • Take cool showers or baths.
  • Place cool, wet cloths on your neck, armpits, and groin.

Check on others

  • Call or visit people who may need support.
  • Ask about their indoor temperature and whether they have water and a way to cool down.

Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles.

Who is at higher risk from heat?

Some people are at greater risk:

  • Seniors aged 65 years or older
  • People who live alone or who are socially isolated
  • People with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, depression, or anxiety
  • People with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or respiratory disease
  • People who have a disability
  • People with limited mobility
  • People with cognitive impairment
  • People with substance use disorders
  • People who do not have access to adequate housing
  • People who work in hot environments (such as in kitchens or outside)
  • Pregnant people
  • Infants and young children

Signs of heat-related illness

Know the signs of heat-related illness:

Mild to moderate

  • Heavy sweating
  • Headache
  • Dizziness or weakness
  • Nausea
  • Muscle cramps

Move to a cooler place, drink water, rest, and use cool cloths a cool shower.

Find more information on heat-related illness on HealthLink BC.

Severe (call 911)

  • Confusion or difficulty speaking
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Very high body temperature
  • Hot, flushed skin that may be dry
  • Seizures

While waiting for help, move the person to a cooler place, remove excess clothing, apply cool water to the skin, and fan them.

Resources