With a heat warning in effect for today and tomorrow, Southwestern Public Health cautions residents to take precautions to protect themselves and the most vulnerable from heat-related illness.
Those most vulnerable include older adults, infants and young children, outdoor workers, and homeless persons who do not have shelter, proper clothing or food.
Anyone who experiences physical distress because of extreme temperatures should immediately seek medical attention, either by calling 911 or going to the emergency department.
What you should do:
• During extreme temperature conditions, stay indoors in an air-conditioned building if possible.
• Limit time in the sun when the UV Index is most intense, between 11 AM – 4 PM.
• Seek shade when outdoors, especially during mid-day.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and decrease intake of caffeinated/alcoholic beverages.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Apply Sunscreen with SPF 30 (or higher), 20-30 minutes before going outside to ensure absorption
and re-apply every 2-3 hours.
• Check regularly on children, the elderly, persons with disabilities and individuals with chronic
illnesses
• Never leave young children, the elderly or pets in a closed parked vehicle for any period.
• Find a public Cooling Centre at http://www.swpublichealth.ca/extreme-heat
