Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting high temperatures that began on Monday, July 13 and last at least two days.

The Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) is advising residents of the five Eastern Counties to take steps to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Everyone is at risk during a heat event, but health risks are greater for older adults, infants and young children, people with chronic illnesses, people who work or exercise in the heat, homeless people and low-income earners.

Health officials recommend the following precautions:

• Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before feeling thirsty;
• Reschedule or plan outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day;
• Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured, breathable clothing;
• Dress babies and young children lightly, and avoid bundling them in blankets or heavy clothing;
• Never leave people or pets in a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight;
• Take breaks from the heat in a cool place like under a shaded tree, an air-conditioned space, or a cooling centre;
• Take cool showers or baths to stay refreshed;
• Prepare meals that don’t require using the oven;
• Block out sun by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day;
• Avoid sun exposure by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat or using an umbrella;
• And limit physical activity.

The EOHU wants to remind people that children perspire less than adults and are more prone to heat stress.
Ask a health care provider or pharmacist whether medications or existing health conditions increase heat-related risk, and follow their guidance.

More information is available at www.EOHU.ca/heat.

Know the Warning Signs

Heat-related illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat fainting, heat edema (swelling of the hands, feet and ankles), heat rash and heat cramps. Symptoms to watch for include dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, extreme thirst, and unusually dark yellow urine with decreased urination.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms during extreme heat should move to a cool place immediately and drink liquids, preferably water.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if caring for someone with a high body temperature who is unconscious, confused, or has stopped sweating. While waiting for help, cool the person down by moving them somewhere cool if possible, applying cold water to large areas of skin or clothing, and fanning them as much as possible.

Check on Vulnerable Neighbours

The EOHU is urging everyone to stay alert and take precautions, and to check in frequently on neighbours, friends and older family members, particularly those living with chronic illness, to ensure they are staying cool and hydrated.

Residents can download the WeatherCAN app for weather alert notifications at canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change, or check updates directly at weather.gc.ca.