Safety Tips For Heat
When the temperature rises, so does the risk—learn how to stay safe and help others during extreme heat.
Extreme heat can be dangerous for everyone—especially vulnerable groups such as older adults, children, people with disabilities or chronic health conditions, and those without access to cool indoor spaces. Knowing how to prepare and respond to heat warnings can help keep you and your loved ones safe.
Know the signs of heat-related illness:
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Rapid breathing and heartbeat
- Extreme thirst
- Decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine
- Confusion or changes in behavior
If you or someone you’re with experiences these symptoms, move to a cooler place, drink water, and cool the body with a damp cloth. In severe cases, call 911.
How to stay safe during extreme heat
- Drink water regularly – even before you feel thirsty. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
- Stay cool – use fans or air conditioning if available. Visit cooled public spaces like libraries or community centres.
- Close blinds or curtains – keep sunlight out during the day. Open windows at night if safe to do so.
- Take cool showers or baths – this helps reduce your body temperature.
- Wear loose, light-coloured clothing – and avoid being outdoors during the hottest parts of the day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
- Check in on others – especially seniors, neighbours living alone, or anyone without air conditioning.
- Never leave people or pets in parked vehicles – even for a few minutes.
Older adults (65+)—special heat safety considerations
Older adults are more vulnerable to heat-related illness. The body’s ability to regulate temperature declines with age, and some medications increase heat sensitivity. Take extra care during heat events:
- Stay cool: Spend time in air-conditioned places. If you don’t have A/C, go to a cooling centre such as a library, mall, or community facility.
- Hydrate regularly: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Choose water, juice, or electrolyte drinks. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Dress and bathe to stay cool: Wear loose, lightweight clothing. Take cool baths or showers to lower body temperature.
Limit outdoor time: Avoid going out between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when temperatures are highest. Rest in the shade if you must be outdoors. - Check your medications: Some prescriptions (e.g., water pills, heart or blood pressure meds) can increase heat risk. Ask your pharmacist or doctor if unsure.
- Use a buddy system: Arrange for a friend or family member to check in with you daily during heat events.
Know the warning signs: Dizziness, confusion, nausea, or muscle cramps can signal heat illness. Move to a cool place, drink water, and apply a wet cloth. Call 911 if symptoms worsen.
Fountains in Esquimalt parks
- Saxe Point Park– right beside main parking lot;
- Highrock Park – just off pathway in the meadow (dog off leash area);
- Memorial Park– right beside Portland Loo/ playground;
- West Bay – entrance of the walkway;
- Esquimalt Gorge Park – by men’s washroom on Nature House; inside the Gorge Park Pavilion;
- Adventure Park – lion's head fountain by picnic tables.
OPEN THE FOUNTAIN, BEACH ACCESS AND FACILITIES MAP
Esquimalt facilities with cooling
- Esquimalt Recreation Centre- indoor fountains and washrooms.
- Gorge Park Pavilion- indoor fountains and washrooms.
- Esquimalt branch of the Greater Victoria Public Library
Waterways and beach access
There are several entry points to access the ocean. See the list.