Preparing for a Heat Wave — Essential Checklist

Before the Heat Wave

• Check your cooling: Test air conditioning or fans before extreme heat arrives
• Stock up on water: Keep extra bottled water at home; freeze some bottles
• Close curtains: Reflective or blackout curtains on sun-facing windows reduce indoor temps significantly
• Identify cooling centres: Know where public air-conditioned spaces are (libraries, malls, community centres)
• Check on others: Know which neighbours, friends, or family members are vulnerable

During the Heat Wave

Hydration

• Drink water regularly, even when not thirsty
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks (they increase dehydration)
• Eat water-rich foods: watermelon, cucumber, berries

Activity

• Limit outdoor activity to before 10 am or after 6 pm
• Never exercise in the midday heat
• Take cool showers to lower body temperature
• Rest more than usual

Home Cooling

• Close windows and curtains during the day; open them at night if it cools down
• Use fans to circulate air (but fans alone are not effective above 35°C)
• Hang damp towels near fans for evaporative cooling
• Spend the hottest hours in the lowest floor of your building

Red Flags — When to Seek Help

For Pet Owners

• Never leave pets in parked cars
• Provide extra water bowls and shade
• Walk dogs on grass, not hot pavement (test with your hand — if too hot for you, too hot for paws)

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Track heat warnings on Weather Tomorrow.