An intense high-pressure system known as a heat dome passed over Vancouver Island Friday, sending even those who are used to working under the sun scrambling for shade by noon.
The rare weather system, more common in the southwestern United States, has prompted social agencies and businesses to take steps to protect the health of their clients and employees.
“Stay hydrated, stay out of the sun and make sure you check on any of your elderly family or neighbours living alone,” said Dr. Mike Benusic, medical health officer for Island Health, who recommended closing your blinds and windows during the day and opening them at night to stay cool.
The temperatures at ground level may be uncomfortable but they’re downright dangerous if you’re working on a roof with no shade.
The crew from Vintage Roofing was pulled off its job installing cedar on a house on Beach Drive by noon on Friday.
“The guys are drinking two gallons of water a day but in this heat, they can only last 15 to 20 minutes before the heat gets to them,” said Gordon Crawford, the site supervisor. “The last time we worked through a heat wave, the guys started at 4 a.m. The homeowner talked with the neighbours ahead of time to ensure everything was OK. We started at first light and worked until 11 a.m. that time.”
Another strategy he employs is to have a split shift, with his crew working until 2 p.m. He then takes them to a lake before returning to the job site at 5 p.m. and working until 8 p.m.
“There’s nothing better than a lake to help bring down your body temperature — even if all you do is just stand in the water,” he said. “It’s not the same as a shower.”
Staff at Our Place, which provides support for those who are homeless, have been putting up posters and warning those who are on the street of the dangers of heat exposure.
“We’ve been getting the word out, making sure our clients are aware and take precautions,” said Jordan Cooper, director of services at Our Place.
People are encouraged to refill their water bottles at a water station in the courtyard. Staff also go around handing out cups of water from a trolley.
With extreme weather becoming the norm, Our Place is working on hot-weather support plans, looking at strategies that could include cooling centres, fans for housing units that do not have central climate control and handing out free sunscreen.
The City of Victoria has set up three portable water fountains — at Centennial Square, Reeson Park and Pandora Green — to keep people hydrated. The city has a network of 40 permanent water fountains, with many offering additional features, such as a bowl for dogs.
Benusic said anyone who wants to spend time in the sun should try to limit it to an hour at a time.
Children playing outside should be wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 40 as well as a wide-brimmed hat. People who are sweating profusely, feeling lightheaded or experiencing confusion are encouraged to call 811 to speak to a registered nurse or 911 if they feel the condition is life-threatening.
Benusic suggested people who are homeless should seek respite from the heat by sheltering in libraries and recreation centres during the day.
“Watch for symptoms of heat-related illness in young children and the elderly, which can include excessive sweating, lightheadedness and difficulty breathing,” he said. “We enjoy typically Mediterranean-type weather, but with climate change, more extreme weather will become more common.”
Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said while mass COVID-19 vaccination clinics are indoors, many pop-up clinics have moved to cooler, indoor locations. “If you have a vaccine appointment at a pop-up clinic or are planning to drop in, check the location before you go, wear a hat and sunscreen, and bring water,” she said in a statement.
Environment Canada is forecasting sunny weather and highs above 30 C until at least Tuesday.
