Marking the fifth anniversary of B.C.'s deadly 2021 heat dome, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is urging people to be prepared as another hot summer gets underway.

More than 600 people died during the record-breaking heat event, with many of the victims found alone in homes that became dangerously hot.

Henry says the tragedy had a lasting impact on families, communities, first responders, and health-care workers across the province.

Since then, B.C. has introduced new measures aimed at reducing the risk during extreme heat, including the BC Heat Alert and Response System and an Extreme Heat Preparedness Guide.

Henry says people living in poverty, those with chronic health conditions, and people experiencing mental illness remain among the most vulnerable, especially when they don't have access to a cool indoor space.

She says everyone can help by checking in on family, friends, and neighbours during periods of extreme heat, as forecasters are predicting more hot days and nights this summer.

To read Dr. Henry's full statement acknowledging the fifth anniversary of the 2021 heat dome, visit Government of British Columbia.