Environment Canada has issued an extended heat warning for Chatham-Kent to last until July 20.
“In high temperatures and humidity, your body may not be able to cool properly which can lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke,” stated a municipal release.
Chatham-Kent is forecasted to have a daytime high temperature greater than or equal to 31°C and a night time temperature greater than or equal to 21°C or a humidex greater than 42 °C.
Symptoms of heat-related illness may include rapid breathing, dizziness or fainting, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, extreme thirst and decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine.
Anyone who experience these symptoms should move to a shaded or air conditioned area, drink plenty of fluids, and rest. Contact a health care provider, a friend or a family member.
Heat strokes are considered a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature, is unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating.
Friends, family and neighbours should check on those who may be vulnerable and subject to any symptoms of overheating and who may need help keeping cool or taking other preventative actions.
Residents are asked to follow COVID-19 precautions when providing heat related assistance.
Heat related illness can affect the elderly, very young, people with chronic illnesses, and even healthy people if they participate in strenuous activities and do not take precautions.
Ways to help prevent heat-related illness:
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
- Never leave anyone or pets in a parked car.
- Seek cooler or air conditioned spaces.
- If you are taking medication or have a health condition, ask your health care provider or pharmacist if heat increases your health risk. Be sure to follow their recommendations.
- Check on elderly family members and neighbours daily to make sure they are keeping cool.
- Wear light-weight, loose fitting clothing.
- Take cool showers or baths, or use cool, wet towels on your face, neck or arms. The use of a fan alone may not provide enough relief from the heat.
- Avoid strenuous activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is at its hottest.
- Avoid going out in the sun, if possible. If you are outdoors, wear sunscreen.
- Avoid heavy meals and using the oven.
- Keep curtains closed to block the sun during the day.
For more information on heat-related illness, visit https://www.chatham-kent.ca/health-social-services/public-health/extreme-weather/HeatRelatedIllness or contact CK Public Health at 519.355.1071.
