With a heat warning in effect, health officials are urging people to take steps to protect themselves.
Hot and humid conditions are expected from Wednesday through to Friday, when humidex values are expected to reach 40 for much of southern Ontario, including our region.
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit says in these conditions, overexertion increases the risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration or heat stroke.
It has offered up the following tips to help avoid overheating.
Be sure to drink plenty of fluids (non-caffeinated). Don’t wait until you feel thirsty – that’s a sign that your body is already becoming dehydrated. Stay cool indoors. Draw blinds or curtains to prevent radiant heat from entering homes. Electric fans provide comfort by increasing evaporation; however, when conditions are extreme, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. If you must be outside, stay in the shade and make sure you wear and reapply sunscreen, a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses and lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Keep physical activity to a minimum. Infants and young children, the frail elderly and people with chronic lung conditions or taking certain prescription drugs are more vulnerable to harm from overheating. Check in on family and friends who are more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat to make sure they’re staying safe.More information about extreme heat can be found on health unit’s website or by calling Health Connection weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.
