Heat alert for Montréal: Keep an eye on seniors, people with physical or mental health problems, and young children

MONTRÉAL, July 22, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - When it's really hot, the Direction de santé publique de l'Agence de la santé et des services sociaux de Montréal recommends that all residents—especially seniors and people who have physical and mental health problems—take the following preventive measures:

1) Spend a few hours in cool place where there is air conditioning such as a movie theatre, a shopping mall or a library.

2) Drink a lot of water, without waiting to be thirsty (unless your doctor has advised you not to). 

3) Reduce activities that require physical effort.

During a heat wave, the DSP also recommends that citizens check in on older family members, friends and neighbours, and on people with chronic illnesses or mental health problems in case they need help or, if needed, to take them to an air-conditioned place. It is also very important to never leave a child alone in the car, even for a few minutes.

Older people and individuals with chronic illnesses or mental health problems are more vulnerable to heat
When it's very hot, anyone can suffer from dehydration, fatigue, dizziness, discomfort or heatstroke. However, older adults, people with chronic illnesses or mental health problems are particularly vulnerable since it may be difficult for them to take precautions to protect themselves from the heat. In addition, people with heart, lung or kidney diseases, diabetes, or mental health problems might lack the physical capacity to cope with the heat, which could affect their health and, in extreme conditions, even cause death.

Children must be watched closely
Children 4 years old and under should be closely watched during a heat wave. It is very important to never leave them alone in a car. It is also important to give them something to drink more often, give them cool baths several times a day, and keep them out of the sun.

For more information, call Info-Santé at 8-1-1, In case of an emergency, call 9-1-1.
For more information about heat waves, go to www.santemontreal.qc.ca/en/heat

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SOURCE: Agence de la santé et des services sociaux de Montréal

Agence de Montréal, 514 286-5709