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The City is advising residents to take precautions during this extended period of hot weather. This is especially important for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and those working or exercising outdoors.

Here are some tips to stay cool:

• Stay hydrated - drink cold beverages, preferably free of alcohol, caffeine and sugar.
• Dress appropriately- avoid dark colours and heavy layers. Wear a hat, loose fitting clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen when heading outdoors.
• Cool down - City of Nanaimo recreation facilities are a great place to cool down. We also have four water parks for kids to enjoy and lifeguards are on duty daily from 12 pm - 6 pm at Westwood Lake.
• Slow down - avoid strenuous activities.
• Look for shade - avoid direct exposure to the sun. The City has wide range of parks and open spaces to get some shade.
• Avoid hot cars - never leave your children or pets in a hot car.
• Stay connected with your friends and neighbours - check on older people and those who are house-bound for signs of heat-related illness.

According to Island Health, the following is a list of symptoms of heat-related illness to watch out for:

• pale, cool, moist skin; 
• heavy sweating; 
• muscle cramps; 
• rash; 
• swelling, especially hands and feet; 
• fatigue and weakness; 
• dizziness and/or fainting; 
• headache; nausea and/or vomiting; 
• fever, particularly a core body temperature of 40° C (104° F) or more; 
• confusion and decreased mental alertness; 
• hallucinations; red, hot, dry skin (in the late stages of heat stroke); 
• seizures; and 
• unconsciousness/coma.

For more information on heat-related illness, visit Health Link BC or dial 811.

The risk of wildfires goes up as the temperature goes up. Residents are also advised to ensure all smoking materials are properly extinguished, don't throw lit cigarettes or other smoking materials out the car window and smoking is not permitted in any City park.