With the prediction of hot and humid weather into the weekend and possibly into next week, Chatham-Kent remains in a heat warning.
“Daytime maximum temperatures: 30 to 32 degrees Celsius, with humidex values 40 to 42. Nighttime minimum temperatures: 20 to 22 degrees Celsius,” Envrionemtn Canada officials say.
“Hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can cause the Air Quality Health Index to approach the high risk category. Extreme heat affects everyone. The risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and people working or exercising outdoors. Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions.
Forecasters added: “Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@canada.ca or tweet reports using #ONStorm.”
Chatham-Kent Public Health officials say in high temperatures and humidity, your body may not be able to cool properly which can lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke
“An extended heat warning is issued in Chatham-Kent when three or more consecutive days are forecasted to have a daytime high temperature greater than or equal to 31°C and a nighttime temperature greater than or equal to 21°C or a humidex greater than 42°C,” public health officials say.
“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 for assistance if needed.”
Heat strokes are a medical emergency, public health officials added.
“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 to overheating and who may need help keeping cool or taking other preventative actions,” CK Public Health officials say.
“The elderly, the very young, and people with chronic illnesses are particularly susceptible to heat-related illness; however, anyone can be impacted 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 people 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,” public health officials say.
“Be sure to follow their recommendations. Check on elderly family members and neighbors frequently to make sure they are keeping cool. Wear lightweight, loose fitting clothing. Take cool showers or baths, or use cool, wet towels on your face, neck, and 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 your oven. Keep curtains closed to block sun during the day.”
For more information on heat-related illness, visit https://ckphu.com/health-topics/weather/extreme-heat/ or contact CK Public Health at 519-355-1071.
