Multi-day heat event expected for Oxford, Perth and Wilmot

By Lee Griffi

Much of the province is in the midst of a multi-day heat event with daytime temperatures reaching over 30 degrees Celsius and humidex values in the low 40s.

A heat warning has been issued for the Gazette’s readership area based on criteria established by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). It is expected to pose an elevated risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion. The warning will be in effect until at least Friday but check local forecasts for the latest information.

Summer camp season has just started and a health promoter at Southwestern Public Health said there are several steps children can take to minimize the effects of the heat.

“Especially with children, ensuring they are very well hydrated before, during and after any physical activity is really important. Seek shade wherever you can, take breaks in air-conditioned spaces; all of these can reduce health risks,” said Michelle Alvey.

While extreme heat can affect everyone’s health, the risks are greatest for older adults, infants and young children, people with chronic illnesses, people who work in the heat and the homeless.

Some seniors live alone without air conditioning, something Alvey said is cause for concern.

“We ask everyone to check in regularly on family and neighbours, especially older adults and people with chronic health conditions, as they are more vulnerable to extreme heat. Where people don’t have air conditioning, even spending a few hours in a public space with it can help reduce the risk of illness.”

She added a library or a recreation centre are often available for people to cool off in, and added people need to be aware of the signs of heat-related illness, such as heat stroke.

“Heat exhaustion is another risk. You want to watch for headaches, nausea or vomiting, dizziness or fainting, along with rapid breathing and extreme thirst from dehydration. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and you are going to want to call 911 immediately if you have a very high body temperature, confusion, dizziness and hot, red skin.”

Alvey added drinking cool liquids, especially water, before feeling thirsty to decrease the risk of dehydration is important. It is also a good idea to reschedule or plan outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day and wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.

“If you don’t need to go outdoors during those peak hours, then stay inside,” added Alvey.

Other tips to beat the heat include taking cool showers or baths, preparing meals that don’t need to be cooked in the oven and keeping curtains or blinds drawn during the day.

With an orange level heat warning currently in effect, the Township of Wilmot is reminding residents of ways to stay cool over the next several days.

The township is home to several cooling centres where residents can find free refuge from the heat. A list of locations is available at www.wilmot.ca/coolingcentres.

Public swimming and aquafit programming are available throughout the week at the Wilmot Recreation Complex. Visit www.wilmot.ca/swimming for schedules and admission details. The splash pad at the Wilmot Recreation Complex is also open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Visit www.wilmot.ca/splashpad for full details.

Pollution levels also tend to be higher on hot days. The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) can be used to determine local air quality and help residents make decisions to protect their health and is available at www.airqualityontario.com/aqhi.

Follow Environment Canada’s weather forecasts at www.weather.gc.ca to stay safe in hot and humid weather. Weather and air quality alerts are also available through “EC Alert me” by signing up at ecalertme.weather.gc.ca.