Vancouver Heat Alert: It Doesn’t Have to Be Scorching to Be Deadly

 🌡️ Vancouver Heat Alert: It Doesn’t Have to Be Scorching to Be Deadly 🌡️

By Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita

The forecast says “warm” — not extreme — but if you’ve lived in one of Vancouver’s high-rise apartments without proper ventilation, you know what that really means. For many people — especially seniors, babies, those with chronic illness, and folks stuck in small or high-up units — that “mild heat” can quickly become unbearable and dangerous.

🧠 Let’s be real: Heat affects our minds and moods.
From restlessness to full-blown confusion, dehydration and heatstroke aren’t just physical. When apartments turn into ovens, tensions rise. People argue. Some turn to substances. If you’ve seen it, you know it’s not just discomfort — it’s crisis.

👶 Check on your elders, infants, neighbours.
Some can't open windows because of bugs, safety, or no screens. Many don’t have air conditioning — either can’t afford it, or buildings don’t allow it. And though there was a free A/C program, access was uneven. My friend didn’t get one. Others gave up trying.

📢 Tips to Beat the Heat (Even Without A/C):

• Hydrate often. Even if you’re not thirsty.
• Hang wet towels in front of fans or windows.
• Spend time in shaded parks, libraries, cooling centres, or malls.
• Close blinds and curtains during the day.
• Take cool showers or soak feet in cold water.
• Sleep on lower floors if possible — heat rises.
• Make sure pets are safe — no hot balconies or small rooms.

⚠️ Know the signs of heat exhaustion:

• Dizziness, nausea
• Heavy sweating or no sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Headaches, confusion
• Rapid heartbeat

Call 911 if you suspect heatstroke — it’s an emergency.

🌍 And to the newcomers from hot countries:
You may be used to higher temperatures, but remember — we often don’t have the infrastructure here. No A/C. Sealed windows. Poor ventilation. It's not about the number on the thermometer — it's how the heat lingers and how little relief some people have.

🙏🏽 Let’s take care of one another.
Check on friends. Especially those alone or who aren’t online much. Knock on doors. Send a message. Watch for signs of heat illness — especially in kids, elderly folks, people with dementia, or anyone who seems “off.”

🧊 Don’t wait until it’s “really hot.”
It’s already too hot for some.

Let’s stay cool, Vancouver. Literally and emotionally.
Share this with love 💛