(File photo/Pattison Media)

By Pete McIntyre

Heat wave

486 sudden deaths over five days in B.C., many heat-related

Jun 30, 2021 | 3:25 PM

The heat wave is taking a heavy toll on B.C. residents.

The B.C. Coroners Service says at least 486 sudden deaths have been reported in the last five days, a 195 per cent increase over the average amount of 165 deaths for that period.

“While it is too early to say with certainty how many of these deaths are heat related, it is believed likely that the significant increase in deaths reported is attributable to the extreme weather B.C. has experienced and continues to impact many parts of our province,” chief coroner Lisa Lapointe said.

People are asked to regularly check-in with those who live alone, and encourage everyone you know to drink water and stay in the shade or cooler environments as much as possible.

“People can be overcome by the effects of extreme heat quickly and may not be aware of the danger,” Lapointe said. “Many communities have opened cooling centres (Kal Tire Place in Vernon). Malls, libraries and other air-conditioned community spaces can provide essential respite from the effects of severe heat.”

Possible firearm involved

One person apprehended in connection with suspicious activity in Coldstream

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Fatal Collision, Highway Closed

One person dead in crash near Revelstoke

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Salaries

Vernon Council to discuss lesser pay increases

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Lapointe said due to the much greater than usual number of reported deaths in some areas, there have been instances where there have been delays in coroners responding to scenes of reported death.

“We have reallocated resources and are continuing to do everything within our power to minimize wait times. I acknowledge and thank our law enforcement partners for their invaluable assistance throughout this period.”