During an extreme heat event, everyone is at risk, but some groups are more vulnerable than others, such as:
- infants and young children
- people who are pregnant
- older adults
- people who live alone
- people with chronic medical conditions (i.e. heart disease, respiratory conditions, overweight, diabetes) or mental illnesses (for example, schizophrenia, depression, dementia)
- people on certain types of medications (i.e. for high blood pressure, for mental illnesses, etc.)
- people experiencing homelessness, those who are underhoused, or encounter other challenges in accessing cool spaces
- people with limited mobility
- outdoor workers (particularly depending upon length, time, and exertion levels outdoors)
- people who work in places where heat is emitted through industrial processes (for example, foundries, bakeries, dry cleaners)
- people who exercise vigorously outdoors (play sports, cyclists, gardeners)
If you or your family falls under one of these increased-risk categories, it is important to make an emergency plan that takes your needs into consideration.