Extreme heat during the COVID-19 pandemic
Instruction for people in insolation due to COVID-19
If the interior temperature of your home becomes too high and the recommended measures to cool down are not sufficient, cases and contacts in isolation may leave their homes to have respite in a cooler place outside, even if the yard is shared or it is necessary to leave the yard to find a shady spot. It is essential that these people respect the following instructions:
- Wear a mask or a face cover (if possible, use a medical mask).
- Wash your hands with lukewarm water and soap for at least 20 seconds after putting on the face cover but before leaving the accommodation.
- Take a respite from the heat only in a shaded outdoor location such as a park.Keep a distance of at least 2 meters from others at all times.
- Sanitize your hands with alcool-based sanitizer just before going outside.
Safe use of fans
Appart from episodes of extreme heat and in the context of a pandemic, it is not recommended to use ventilators since these, if they are near an infected person, can generate an air flow and contribute to disperse expectorated aerosols beyond 2 meters.
However, in a context of extreme heat, or when the temperature inside significantly exceeds comfort parameters, the use of portable air conditioners and electric fans is considered appropriate when used properly, in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer, when respecting the 
basic health instructions (french only) to avoid the transmission of COVID-19 and in conjunction with passive heat attenuation measures (eg. : maintaining adequate ventilation of the premises, use of curtains, blinds, sun shades; wearing loose, light and clear clothing; hydration by consuming an adequate quantity).
- Depending on the devices, use pedestal fans or localized air conditioning (portable, window, split) avoiding directing the outgoing air flow towards people's faces.
- Direct the air flow towards surfaces such as walls, or install a deflector (adjustable shutter) or a screen in front of the device.
- Keep the pedestal fans in a fixed position (no oscillation) and keep the airflow speed of the unit at a low level. Ceiling fans should be operated as to generate an upward flow of air.
Tips to make face masks more confortable
The following recommendations aim to increase comfort for workers or the population in a hot environment:
- Choose a quality mask that is well suited to the shape and size of the face to reduce discomfort and properly adjust the band around the nose.
- Promote breathing through the nose, as it generates less heat and moisture trapped in the mask.
- Change the mask when it gets wet from breathing, sweat or becomes dirty (bring a few spare masks).
- Choose a quality mask that is well suited to the shape and size of the face to reduce discomfort and properly adjust the band around the nose.
- Promote breathing through the nose, as it generates less heat and moisture trapped in the mask.
- Change the mask when it gets wet from breathing, sweat or becomes dirty (bring a few spare masks).
Here are additional recommendations that can improve comfort:
- Cleanse the face before and after wearing the mask.
- To prevent discomfort, avoid using creams or lotions that may block the pores of the skin (eg foundation).
- Spread moisturizer on the skin after wearing the mask.
- Reduce heat discomfort by cooling the forehead and neck, even when wearing the mask.
- In an indoor workplace, ensure adequate ventilation and turn on the air conditioning, if necessary.
Rapport d'enquête épidémiologique - Vague de chaleur de l'été 2018