With summer getting hotter across B.C. make sure you're staying safe! You can visit your local Otter Co-op and speak with a Pharmacist or visit our Retail Centre for A/C units, fans and more to cool off.

Here are some tips to stay cool in the heat:

STAY HYDRATED: Make sure you're drinking lots of water during the day. Don't forget to refresh your animal's bowls too. They need lots of cold water to beat the heat. Avoid coffee, alcohol and sugar where you can. It's easy to forget to drink water to SAVE this post as your reminder.

SUNSCREEN!: No matter where you're spending your day, in the park, pool, lake, or in the shade, apply sunscreen regularly to avoid burning, and overheating. SPF 30 and up is the way to go.

STAY COOL: This is a big one because you might not recognize you're getting heat stroke until it's too late. Take shifts in and out of the sun, if you can get indoors for periods of the day, go cool off. Cold showers and baths help, even pouring cold water over your head will keep you cool. Get help immediately if you feel dizzy, nauseous, or unwell. It could be a sign of heatstroke.

MEDICATIONS: Keep your medication in a cool place. Ask your Otter Co-op Pharmacist about heat-related side effects.

EAT WELL: Try not to use your stove and oven in the house in this heat. Make salads, sandwiches, or something cool that doesn't require you heating up your home to prepare.

We hope these tips help keep you and your family safe and cool this summer. If you have any questions, you can always speak to a Co-op Pharmacist. We're always here to help.