Heat waves: How to protect your home, yourself, and your loved ones

   The rising risk of heat waves to home and health

Canadian summers are getting hotter, and heat waves are becoming more common. A heat wave is when temperatures stay way above normal for several days, often combined with high humidity.

While we all love sunny days, periods of extreme heat can be tough on our bodies and homes. Heat waves can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke. Especially vulnerable groups include seniors, young kids, and people with chronic illnesses.

General prep before the heat hits 

The best time to get ready for a heat wave is before the forecast calls for soaring temperatures.

Stock up on the essentials: bottled water, electrolyte drinks, ice packs, and non-perishable snacks

Make sure your first aid kit is up to date and includes supplies to treat heat exhaustion

Create an emergency plan with your family that includes where to go if you need to cool off, such as a local community center or mall

Keep an eye on weather reports so you’re not caught off guard, and sign up for local alerts from Environment Canada

Heat-Proof Home Upgrades

Keeping the heat out starts with smart home upgrades:

• Did you know that insulation isn’t just for winter? It also helps keep your house cool in summer by blocking hot air from sneaking in. If your attic or walls could use an upgrade, consider adding more insulation.

• Window treatments such as blackout curtains, reflective blinds, or thermal shades can make a huge difference. During peak sun hours, keep blinds or curtains closed to prevent sunlight from turning your rooms into ovens.

• Weather stripping around doors and windows keeps cool air inside and hot air out You can also use door snakes or rolled-up towels at the base of doors for a quick fix.

• If you have ceiling fans, make sure they’re spinning counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down

• For those who love a DIY project, installing awnings or planting shade trees near south-facing windows can offer natural cooling

Best Colling Tools and Appliances

When the heat is on, air conditioners are the gold standard for staying cool, but not all homes have central air. Portable or window air conditioners are great alternatives and can be moved to different rooms as needed. If you’re shopping for a new unit, look for models with energy-saving features and programmable thermostats. (Some Canadian provinces offer rebates for upgrading to energy-efficient cooling systems, so check with your local utility provider.)

For smaller spaces or to save on energy bills, portable cooling devices such as tower fans, pedestal fans, and personal air coolers can do the trick. Evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers, work well in dry climates by adding moisture to the air, while fans simply circulate air to make it feel cooler. In Canada, where humidity can be high, traditional fans may be more effective than evaporative coolers during muggy summer days.

Don’t forget low-tech solutions! Fill a spray bottle with cold water for a quick mist, or use cool, damp towels on your neck and wrists. Setting up a cross-breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of your home can help move hot air out and bring cooler air in during the evening hours.

Keeping loved ones safe during peak heat

The hottest days can be dangerous, so it’s important to look out for each other.

• Remind yourself and those around you to stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day, even if they don’t feel thirsty

• It’s also wise to avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can make dehydration worse

• Check in on neighbors, especially those who live alone, are elderly, or have health challenges. Sometimes just a phone call or a quick visit can make a big difference.

• If you or someone you know shows signs of heat illness (e.g., headache, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, confusion, or nausea) move to a cooler place, sip water, and seek medical attention if symptoms are severe

Pets need protection, too!

• Make sure they have a shady spot and plenty of water

• Walk dogs early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler, and never leave pets outside for long periods during a heat wave

• Watch for signs of overheating in pets, like excessive panting or drooling, and call your vet if you’re concerned

Three types of flood coverage
 

1.Sewer backup: Protects against damage caused by water backing up through drains, toilets, or sump pumps.

2.Overland water: Covers damage from water that enters your home from overflowing rivers, lakes, or heavy rain. Not all insurers offer this coverage, especially in high-risk zones.

3.Comprehensive: Some insurers provide bundled options that include both sewer backup and overland water, but availability and terms vary.

Read your policy carefully

Review your home insurance policy or speak with your broker to understand what is covered, what exclusions exist, and whether you are eligible for additional flood protection.

Flood coverage often comes with deductibles, limits, and conditions. Make sure you understand these to avoid surprises during a claim.
 

Document your possessions: Keep an up-to-date inventory of your belongings, including receipts and photographs, to simplify claims and prove losses.

Explore government assistance: In severe disasters, provincial and federal programs may offer aid to uninsured homeowners. However, these programs are limited and not a substitute for insurance.

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