With the ongoing heat event expected to stick with us through tomorrow, Huron Perth Public Health is reminding people to take measures to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Heat warnings are issued when high temperature or humidity conditions reach criteria established by Environment Canada and are expected to pose an elevated risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Humidex values will likely be near 40, and overnight lows of about 20 degrees will provide little relief from the heat. However, conditions should improve tomorrow evening.
People should drink plenty of liquids, and try to plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day. You should take a break in a cool place if possible, or have a cool shower. Avoid sun exposure and never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
Watch for symptoms of heat illnesses, which include:
-Dizziness or fainting
-Nausea or vomiting
-Headache
-Rapid breathing and heartbeat
-Extreme thirst
-Decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine.
Symptoms of heat stroke include high body temperature, confusion, being unconscious or stopping sweating. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately if you are caring for someone with these symptoms.
While waiting for help, cool the person right away by:
-Moving them to a cool place, if you can
-Applying cold water to large areas of the skin or clothing
-Fanning the person as much as possible.
Check in on neighbours, friends and older family members, especially those with chronic illness, to make sure they are cool and hydrated.
