Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is urging everyone to be safe as much of southern Ontario is blanketed by a heat wave this week.
Environment Canada has upgraded a previously issued yellow level heat warning to orange level for much of the region, with temperatures well into the 30s during the day throughout the week, and humidex values into the 40s.
The heat wave is expected to last right through Friday, July 3. HPPH notes that while extreme heat can affect everyone’s health, the risks are greatest for:
-older adults
-infants and young children
-people with chronic illnesses, such as breathing difficulties, heart conditions, or psychiatric illnesses
-people who work in the heat
-people who exercise in the heat
-people experiencing homelessness
-people with low income (who may not have access to cooler air)
Ensure that you're drinking plenty of cool liquids, reschedule or plan out activities that are outdoors for cooler times of the day, and wear light, loose fitting clothing.
Symptoms of heat stroke include:
-Headache
-Nausea or vomiting
-Dizziness or fainting
-Rapid breathing and heartbeat
-Extreme thirst
-Decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine
-Changes in behaviour in children (e.g. sleepiness)
If someone is suffering from heat stroke, immediately call 911 and move the person to a cooler place and apply cold water to their skin.
