How to stay safe during a heat dome

A heat dome is bringing dangerous temperatures to parts of southern Ontario, Quebec and the eastern United States, with some areas expected to see highs in the mid30s to low 40s Celsius. Health experts say the safest option during extreme heat is air conditioning, but fans and other simple steps can also help reduce risk for people without it. Experts say fans can be useful up to a point, especially when indoor temperatures are below about 38 C. Once indoor heat approaches or exceeds body temperature, fans may stop helping and can even make conditions worse. Pointing a fan directly at the body can improve heat loss, and wetting the skin with water can boost cooling through evaporation. Doctors also warn that hydration matters, but alcohol can make dehydration worse. They recommend drinking fluids with electrolytes, checking on children, older adults and people with medical or psychiatric conditions, and being aware that some medications can affect how the body handles heat. They also say nighttime heat is increasingly important because it limits recovery after hot days.