As extreme weather events become more frequent in Canada, knowing how to respond in an emergency is more important than ever. From scorching heat waves to dangerous cold snaps, wildfires, and severe storms, climate change is increasing the risk of injuries and health complications.
We spoke with Andrew Johnston, a Red Cross First Aid Master Instructor Trainer and owner of First Aid Guy, to answer some of the most common climate-related first aid questions and share expert tips on how to prepare.
“We get these polar vortexes in the winter and extreme heat waves in the summer,” he explains. “And now, even in Ontario, wildfires are becoming a bigger concern. They’re hotter, more widespread, and the smoke travels long distances—sometimes even across continents.”
Poor air quality from wildfire smoke can cause breathing problems, especially during physical activity. Many people are now limiting or avoiding outdoor activities on smoky days to protect their health.
If indoors, move them to an air-conditioned space. If that’s not available—such as when camping—find shade or a cooler area.
Hydration is critical:
If a location is dangerous—such as in the direct path of a wildfire, in floodwaters, or during a lightning storm—move to safety before administering care.
Sometimes that means moving the injured person as well or leaving temporarily to direct first responders to the scene. “You can’t help anyone if you become another casualty,” Johnston reminds.
Johnston shares a real-life example:
“Near Algonquin Park, a severe storm brought down a tree on a tent. The mother had taken a wilderness first aid course, so she was able to care for her injured son until help arrived.”
Beyond technical skills, these courses encourage preparedness—both physical and psychological—so you’re ready for the unexpected.
By building your knowledge and readiness now, you’ll be better equipped to protect yourself, your family, and your community—no matter what the climate throws your way.
We spoke with Andrew Johnston, a Red Cross First Aid Master Instructor Trainer and owner of First Aid Guy, to answer some of the most common climate-related first aid questions and share expert tips on how to prepare.
1. What Are the Most Common Climate-Related Emergencies?
According to Johnston, heat and cold emergencies top the list.“We get these polar vortexes in the winter and extreme heat waves in the summer,” he explains. “And now, even in Ontario, wildfires are becoming a bigger concern. They’re hotter, more widespread, and the smoke travels long distances—sometimes even across continents.”
Poor air quality from wildfire smoke can cause breathing problems, especially during physical activity. Many people are now limiting or avoiding outdoor activities on smoky days to protect their health.
2. How Should You Treat Heat Exhaustion at Home or While Camping?
Johnston’s first piece of advice is simple: get the person out of the heat.If indoors, move them to an air-conditioned space. If that’s not available—such as when camping—find shade or a cooler area.
Hydration is critical:
- Drink small sips of water, not large gulps, to avoid nausea or vomiting.
- Staying hydrated is also one of the easiest ways to prevent heat-related illnesses in the first place.
3. What Should Be in a Climate-Ready First Aid Kit?
A standard first aid kit is a good starting point, but Johnston recommends adapting it to your local risks. For example:- If wildfires are common, include N95 masks to protect from smoke inhalation.
- In areas prone to flooding or storms, waterproof storage for your supplies is essential.
- With changing climates bringing new insect populations, include tick removal tools and insect repellent.
4. Is It Safe to Give First Aid During a Flood or Wildfire?
“Your safety always comes first,” Johnston stresses.If a location is dangerous—such as in the direct path of a wildfire, in floodwaters, or during a lightning storm—move to safety before administering care.
Sometimes that means moving the injured person as well or leaving temporarily to direct first responders to the scene. “You can’t help anyone if you become another casualty,” Johnston reminds.
5. What Role Does Psychological First Aid Play?
Climate-related emergencies can be mentally exhausting—for victims and for first aiders. Johnston says Psychological First Aid is about two things:- Self-care – managing your own stress and mental well-being.
- Caring for others – providing comfort, listening, and connecting people to further support.
6. How Does First Aid Training Prepare You for Climate Emergencies?
The Red Cross’s Standard First Aid courses cover a wide range of emergencies common in urban and rural settings. For those spending time in remote areas, Wilderness & Remote First Aid offers additional skills for handling emergencies far from help.Johnston shares a real-life example:
“Near Algonquin Park, a severe storm brought down a tree on a tent. The mother had taken a wilderness first aid course, so she was able to care for her injured son until help arrived.”
Beyond technical skills, these courses encourage preparedness—both physical and psychological—so you’re ready for the unexpected.
Final Advice from a Red Cross Instructor
“You’ll never be able to plan for every possible scenario,” Johnston says. “But a small plan is better than no plan. A skimpy first aid kit is better than none. Physical readiness and mental preparedness will get you through most emergencies.”
Key takeaways:
- Stay aware of weather and air quality alerts.
- Adapt your first aid kit to your region’s climate risks.
- Hydration is essential for preventing both heat and cold emergencies.
- Prioritize safety—never put yourself in danger to help someone else.
- Practice self-care so you can better support others.
Get Prepared Today
Interested in learning these lifesaving skills? Find a Red Cross First Aid course near you.By building your knowledge and readiness now, you’ll be better equipped to protect yourself, your family, and your community—no matter what the climate throws your way.
- Download the First Aid App at RedCross.ca/Apps
- Share resources at RedCross.ca/FirstAidTips
- Shop first aid kits at Products.RedCross.ca
- Learn what to do before, during and after the emergencies and disasters that most commonly affect people living in Canada.
- Get you and your family ready to face an emergency such as a flood, wildfire, earthquake or power outage.
