UPDATE: Cooler temperatures today have lead to the heat warning being lifted.
Today’s hot, humid weather brought the first heat warning of the season.
Tthe Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit says the heat warning is in effect for the city for the next few days. A warning is issued when the maximum daytime temperature is expected to be greater or equal to 31°C and the night time temperature is greater or equal to 20°C, or the humidex is greater or equal to 40°C for two consecutive days.
“Hot summer weather can take a toll on people, resulting in heat-related illness, so we encourage local residents to be smart and not overdo it when it is extremely hot outside. A heat warning is a reminder for people to drink plenty of water and seek out cool places,” says Lynne Franke, Interim Manager of Organizational Initiatives, at the HKPR District Health Unit.
Extremely hot weather can be a health risk especially for infants, elderly people, and people with chronic diseases according to the Health Unit. Heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are preventable. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, headache, fainting, paleness, weakness, tiredness, dizziness, and nausea.
During the Heat Warning, the Health Unit advises local residents to take the following precautions:
- Avoid outdoor sports activities or moderately intense physical activity.
- Check-in with vulnerable family, friends, acquaintances, clients.
- Drink lots of water and natural fruit juices even if you don’t feel very thirsty.
- Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee and cola.
- Avoid going out in the sun or heat when possible. If outside, stay in the shade and plan to go out early in the morning or evening when it is cooler.
- Go to air-conditioned facilities (shopping malls, libraries, community centres or a friend’s).
- Keep shades, drapes, and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home, but keep windows slightly open. If you do not have air conditioning, use fans.
- Keep lights off or turned down low.
- Wear loose fitting, light clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Take a cool bath or shower periodically or cool down with cool, wet towels.
- Avoid heavy meals and using your oven.
Photo Courtesy: The Daily Peoples Time
