CORNWALL, Ontario – The Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) is asking the public to take caution during an ongoing heat event that started on Sunday, June 27 and is expected to continue for two days.
Environment Canada has issued a Heat Warning for the region.
“After a couple warm and humid days, even higher temperatures are expected over the next couple of days. High temperatures near 31 degrees and afternoon Humidex values near 40 are expected. Overnight lows near 20 degrees will offer little relief from the heat and humidity,” reads a statement from Environment Canada.
According to The Weather Network, temperatures on Sunday would feel like they are in the high 30 degrees Celsius, or low forties. The Weather Network forecasts that the high temperature on Monday will be 29 degrees but will feel more like 39.
“Heat illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat fainting, heat edema (swelling of hands, feet and ankles), heat rash and heat cramps (muscle cramps),” reads a statement from the EOHU. “Watch for symptoms of heat illness, which include: dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, extreme thirst, and decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine. If you experience any of these symptoms during extreme heat, immediately move to a cool place and drink liquids. Water is best.”
The EOHU lists the following tips to reduce the risk of heat illness:
- Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before you feel thirsty to decrease your risk of dehydration. Thirst is not a good indicator of dehydration.
- Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.
- Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric. Dress babies and young children very lightly and do not bundle them in blankets or heavy clothing.
- Never leave people or pets in your care inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
- Take a break from the heat by spending a few hours in a cool place. It could be a tree-shaded area, an air-conditioned spot, or a cooling centre.
- Take cool showers or baths until you feel refreshed.
- Prepare meals that don’t need to be cooked in your oven.
- Block sun out by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day.
- Avoid sun exposure. Shade yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat or using an umbrella.
- Limit your physical activity.
- Be aware that children are unable to perspire as much as adults and are therefore more prone to heat stress.
- Ask your health care provider or pharmacist if the medications you are taking or any health condition you may have increase your health risk in the heat and follow their recommendations.
