Montreal officials highlight heat wave dangers

Health officials from the City of Montreal are asking residents to exercise caution in the sun as temperatures rise.

Last summer, dozens of deaths were suspected to be linked to heat waves in the city. The city's average daily death ratedoubled on July 8, 2010, during the peak of a heat wave.

With temperatures nearing 30 C, this week is forecast to be one of the hottest Montreal has seen so far this summer.

City spokesman Darren Becker said it takes three consecutive days of more than 32 C before the city opens cooling centres and extends pool hours.

"Last year, we opened a lot of these centres but people didn't seem to avail themselves of them too much, but some people just like knowing that they can go there, that there are some services available," said Becker.

Most vulnerable

The elderly are most at risk in the heat, according health officials.

Dr. Jos Morais, the head of geriatrics at the McGill University Health Centre, said keeping an eye out for signs of heat-related health problems can save lives.

"A phone call, a visit to these homebound elderly is a must to prevent excess mortality," said Morais.

Morais said staying out of the sun andtaking shelterin air-conditioned rooms or public buildings like libraries or shopping malls are some of the best ways to avoid the heat.