The 2026 Heat Surveillance and Prevention Plan urges the public to reduce outdoor physical activity between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM, especially when moderate, high, or extreme risk levels are activated. Emphasis is placed on maintaining adequate hydration, staying in cool places, and paying special attention to vulnerable groups.
Health authorities discourage the consumption of beverages containing caffeine, alcohol, or excessive sugar, as they can promote dehydration. Light meals rich in fruits, vegetables, and juices are promoted to replenish salts lost through sweat.
To keep homes cool, it is recommended to spend as much time as possible in shaded or air-conditioned areas, take cool showers, and use fans. Lowering blinds and awnings during peak radiation hours and ventilating in the morning or at night are other key measures, particularly in homes without air conditioning.
When going outdoors, it is advisable to seek shade, avoid direct sun exposure, and wear light, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing. The use of hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen is essential. The prohibition of leaving people or animals inside parked and closed vehicles is reiterated.
The most vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, infants, young children, and patients with chronic illnesses, require special attention. It is suggested to contact them frequently to check their condition and ensure preventive measures are being followed.
Heat can affect medication, so it is recommended to store it in a cool place. Individuals are urged to consult health services if symptoms related to high temperatures, such as dizziness, intense weakness, headache, or confusion, persist for more than an hour.
The plan details specific recommendations based on the risk level: low (hydration, staying cool, sun protection), moderate (reduce physical activity), high (cancel outdoor activities, air conditioning), and extreme (remain in a cool place even at night).
Regarding the 130 deaths attributed to heat in the Canary Islands last year, it is clarified that these are statistical estimates from the MoMo system. Approximately 3% would directly correspond to heatstroke, while the rest would be cases where heat may have exacerbated pre-existing conditions.
In the last five years, 428 hospital attendances related to heat were recorded in the Canary Islands, with the highest incidence concentrated between 2021 and 2023. This underscores the need for ongoing preventive campaigns.
Concurrently, Health will launch an informational campaign under the slogan 'In the Canary Islands, summer is pure happiness,' using videos, radio spots, and social media to disseminate preventive messages.
