Southwestern Public Health issues extreme heat warning

Staff, Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

Environment Canada is forecasting a multi-day heat event starting Monday, July 13 and continuing into Wednesday, July 15 or Thursday, July 16. Daytime highs will be as high as 35 degrees Celsius, with humidex values near 42. Overnight low temperatures are expected to be near 23 degrees Celsius.

Residents in Elgin County, Oxford County, and the City of St. Thomas are recommended to monitor the weather forecast to evaluate the risk of exposure to heat, as conditions could change. Visit Environment Canada's website for the most up-to-date information.

During an extreme heat warning, residents should take precautions to protect themselves and the most vulnerable from heat-related illness. Those most vulnerable to the effects of the heat include older adults, infants and young children, outdoor workers, and people experiencing homelessness who do not have shelter, proper clothing or food. Anyone who experiences physical distress because of extreme temperatures should seek medical attention immediately, either by calling 911 or by going to the nearest 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 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Seek shade when outdoors, especially during midday

• 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 reapply every 2 to 3 hours

• Check regularly on children, elderly, persons with disabilities and individuals with chronic illnesses

• Never leave young children, elderly or pets in a closed parked vehicle for any period of time

• Find a public Cooling Centre at www.swpublichealth.ca/extreme-heat

  
  

Anyone who experiences physical distress because of extreme temperatures should seek medical attention immediately, either by calling 911 or by going to the nearest emergency department.