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

Lee Griffi, Editor

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 Echo'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 your 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,” explained 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 Alvery 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 you feel thirsty to decrease your 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.

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 you make decisions to protect your health and is available at www.airqualityontario.com/aqhi.

You can follow Environment Canada’s weather forecasts at www.weather.gc.ca so you can plan to stay safe in hot and humid weather. You can also receive weather and air quality alerts from “EC Alert me” by signing up at https://ecalertme.weather.gc.ca/.