The Dangers Of Heat
Heat is a danger that we don’t think about as often in Canada as its opposite. Similar to frostbite and hypothermia can happen when it’s cold out, heat stroke, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion are all dangers you face when it’s too hot. These can ruin your day, and maybe even cause hospitalisation in the most extreme circumstances. With temperatures getting warmer, these are dangers you’re going to need to be careful of, especially when deciding what to do over the summer. Please note that each of these numbers is subject to change due to many factors listed at the end of this article.
Too Hot To Run
Whether you’re just boosting your cardio or just enjoy getting the thrill of going fast, a run can be a great outdoor activity. While there is no one set temperature where it goes from safe to not safe for a run, 32 C (90 F) is a good guideline.
Too Hot To Go For A Walk
Since walking is a little bit less strenuous than running, you can afford just a bit more temperature. Generally, 35 C (95 F) is a good upper limit when going for a walk, but again, exact temperatures vary.
Too Hot To Walk Your Dog
Although going for a walk is often your dog’s favourite thing to do, you might want to keep your furry friend inside on hotter days. A dog’s fur coat helps them a lot in colder temperatures, but often backfires in the heat, making them more susceptible to heat stroke than we are. Generally, 20 C – 25 C (68 F – 77 F) is considered safe, with some higher temperatures getting dangerous, although the exact numbers change with the exact breed. The hotter the temperature, the quicker you end your walk.
Too Hot To Leave A Dog In A Car
Leaving your dog in a car can be seen as poor ownership, and this is especially true in the heat, as it’s usually hotter inside the car than outside. Generally, if it’s over 20 C (68 F), it’s too hot to leave your furry friend in the car.
Too Hot For A Picnic
You might think that you can have a picnic at slightly warmer temperatures than walking, since you’re almost entirely stationary. However, due to food safety being an additional threat, 32 C (90 F) is a good general guideline.
Too Hot To Go To The Beach
There is perhaps no summer activity more iconic than going to the beach. Bathing suits, sand, games of catch, swimming, volleyball, ice cream: all coming together in one grand place. However, 30 C – 35 C (86 F – 95 F) is generally considered too hot. Remember, even when it is cool enough, be sure to wear some sunscreen.
Too Hot To Go Swimming
Swimming is yet another traditional summer activity, and anyone who owns a pool knows its joys. While the temperature of the water is highly important, the temperature outside is also a huge factor. Again, 30 C (86 F) is generally seen as being near the upper limit of what’s considered safe.
What Else Impacts Heat Safety
As mentioned above, the numbers pointed out above aren’t exact numbers, only guidelines. There are plenty of things that can make you more or less susceptible to certain dangers. These include:
- Humidity. Increased humidity can make it more dangerous to be outside.
- Sun and shade. The more sun, the more dangerous the heat becomes. Staying in the shade can be helpful.
- Age. Those who are very old or very young are generally more susceptible to the dangers of heat.
- Health conditions. Certain people are simply more susceptible to the dangers of heat due to a pre-existing health condition. Those with diabetes and heart conditions should be more careful.
Staying Safe In The Heat
If you want to make yourself slightly safer, there are things you can do to mitigate the risks of heat. While there is no way to make yourself completely safe, the following can help:
- Stay in the shade to cool off.
- Take breaks, preferably inside.
- Drink plenty of water, especially water with ice added.
- Exert yourself less.
- Shorten your exposure overall. Wrapping up sooner can be helpful if you feel uncomfortable.
- Wear fewer layers. Shorts and a t-shirt should be enough.
Also, keep in mind that different people have different limits. Keep the above temperatures in mind as guidelines, and if you start feeling sick, get to safety and drink some water.
