Last week’s heat wave was an eye-opener. It was unlike anything I’ve experienced before in this province. It was beyond just some minor discomfort that could be remedied by a cold drink.
It was so hot I had trouble sleeping. Simply just existing was a chore. I lost my appetite and ate less than usual. I normally get water from my hot water dispenser but it was so hot that I couldn’t bear to drink water that wasn’t cold. I usually have to refill the dispenser every night before I go to bed but during the heat wave, I didn’t touch it for about four days straight. I didn’t drink coffee during that time, again because it was just too hot for that.
Sadly, the heat wave was also deadly. Hundreds of people died last week because of the heat. It’s unbelievable that such an event could occur here in this province and lead to tragedy. This province isn’t really prepared for heat waves of that magnitude. Our homes are designed mainly to keep people warm when it gets cold, not to move heat out of the home. Air conditioning historically has been viewed as an optional luxury. I know that’s how I’ve felt in the past.
I’m not sure if we can keep thinking like that. The world is changing and we must change with it. I don’t know how I lucked into it but I was able to order a portable air conditioner last week. It arrives either tomorrow or the day after. I only have sliding glass doors in apartment and not actual windows, so making this portable A/C unit fit is going to be a challenge that I haven’t solved yet. I will endeavour to be ready for the next heat wave however. I need to be prepared for the next one.