Here are a few tips to help prevent heat illnesses during a long weekend at the cottage or outdoors:
• Keep the cottage cool. Many cabins and cottages aren’t fitted with an air conditioning system, so it’s important to minimize the heat you create indoors. Block the light with awnings, curtains, or blinds, and don’t use the oven for cooking during extreme heat events.
• Check local weather and heat warnings. This can help you plan your daily activities and prepare for extreme heat events.
• Avoid sun exposure. Find cooler outdoor locations, such as a tree-shaded area or a spot under an umbrella, as these can be up to three degrees cooler than the surrounding area. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made of breathable fabric. Shade yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat or using an umbrella.
Wear sunscreen but remember, sunscreen will protect against the sun’s UV rays, but not from the heat.
