With the arrival of summer and warmer temperatures, the BC Coroners Service (BCCS) is urging people to take extra care and plan ahead in the event of extreme-weather conditions.  

According to updated data from BCCS, there were 11 suspected heat-related deaths in 2023. All such deaths were reported between May and August, with more than 80% occurring in July and August.

The report also found:

• approximately two-thirds of the deaths were among people over 60;
• males accounted for nearly three-quarters of heat-related deaths in the province; and
• the Interior Health Authority recorded the most deaths (five).

Extreme heat can have devastating consequences. In June and July 2021, 619 people died due to record-high temperatures in British Columbia. A BCCS death review panel identified several areas where loss of life could be prevented during extreme-heat events. The primary point was better identifying and supporting vulnerable populations.

This summer, in the event of unusually high temperatures:

• check on family, friends and neighbours, especially those who are elderly and living alone;
• visit cooler environments, such as cooling centres, malls, libraries and other air-conditioned community spaces;
• stay hydrated and avoid physical activities outside; and
• never leave children or pets alone in a parked car.

The data presented in the report is considered preliminary and subject to change as investigations conclude.

Learn More:

Knowledge update - heat-related deaths in 2023: https://www2.gov.bc.ca//assets/gov/birth-adoption-death-marriage-and-divorce/deaths/coroners-service/statistical/bccs_heat_death_knowledge_update_2023.pdf  

Extreme Heat and Human Mortality: A Review of Heat-Related Deaths in B.C. in Summer 2021: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/birth-adoption-death-marriage-and-divorce/deaths/coroners-service/death-review-panel/extreme_heat_death_review_panel_report.pdf

Province of British Columbia: Be prepared for extreme heat and drought: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/preparedbc/know-your-hazards/severe-weather/extreme-heat