WELLINGTON COUNTY – Public health officials are reminding residents to take precautions during a hot stretch that is expected to last at least four days.
On Wednesday (July 1), Environment Canada issued a heat warning for all of Wellington County, noting temperatures are expected to surpass 30C until Sunday – and perhaps into early next week.
“Daytime high temperatures in the low 30s with overnight lows near 20 degrees Celsius are expected,” states the warning from Environment Canada.
With the humidex, temperatures are expected to reach the high 30s.
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) officials are reminding everyone to take precautions, particularly those at greater risk: older adults, children, those with chronic health conditions, and people working or exercising outdoors.
Health officials offer the following tips to cope during heat waves:
- avoid sun exposure (plan breaks and schedule strenuous outdoor activities for the early morning or evening);
- stay hydrated by drinking plenty of cool liquids (before getting thirsty);
- close shades and blinds and avoid using the oven in order to keep cool in the house;
- if without air-conditioning, take shelter in the coolest room in the home and take cool showers or a bath to cool off;
- never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle;
- regularly call friends and family to check in on those who are vulnerable/alone.
Environment Canada suggests eating cool, light meals when it is hot and encourages everyone to be aware of the symptoms of heat illness:
- dizziness/fainting;
- nausea/vomiting;
- rapid breathing and heartbeat;
- extreme thirst; and
- decreased urination with unusually dark urine.
For more information on what to do during extreme heat, visit the WDGPH website.
