Summer has sizzled its way into Chatham-Kent.
As the hot, humid weather lays across the municipality like a warm gossamer blanket, farmers will be smiling, while others will be just plain sweating.
Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the municipality for the week. Daytime highs will top 30C, even reaching the mid-30s, while nighttime temperatures won’t offer much in relief as they are anticipated to be between 22C and 25C.
CK Public Health warns people to take precautions.
“In high temperatures and humidity, your body may not be able to cool properly which can lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke,” municipal officials said in a media release.
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. If you have these symptoms, move to a shaded or air-conditioned area, drink plenty of fluids, and rest. Contact your health-care provider, a friend or a family member.
Heat stroke is 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. 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.
During the summer swelter this week, municipal centres and libraries are options for people to beat the heat.
Hope Haven on Wellington Street in Chatham is also a cooling location.
