Heat Warning in Effect

An Environment Canada Heat Warning is in effect calling for daytime highs of 32 to 36 degrees Celsius, Humidex values of 42 to 46 and overnight lows of 22 to 25 degrees Celsius, providing little relief from the heat.

Watch for symptoms

Heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke can be very dangerous, especially to those most vulnerable to health risks including people who work outdoors, people who are unhoused, elderly and some people with disabilities or chronic diseases, people who are pregnant, and children and infants. Monitor yourself and those around you for signs of heat-related illness and seek medical attention if required. Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• tiredness and weakness
• dizziness and/or fainting
• rash
• nausea or vomiting
• rapid breathing and headache
• extreme thirst
• decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine

To help reduce your risk of heat-related illnesses during an extreme heat warning, ensure you drink lots of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty and try to spend time in an air-conditioned home or public building, such as a shopping mall, library or community centre.

Tips to stay cool indoors

During an extreme heat warning staying indoors can limit direct sun exposure, but it can also cause potential health risks if indoor temperatures get too warm. Stay cool indoors by covering windows and using a fan to circulate air, keep lights off or low, avoid using the oven or hot appliances, take a cool bath or shower and turning on air conditioning, if available.

Tips for staying cool outdoors

During an extreme heat warning it may not be possible for some people to remain indoors or access air-conditioned spaces. Stay cool outdoors by avoid direct sunlight by staying in the shade, reducing physical activity and outdoor sports, wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, and monitor yourself and others for signs of heat-related illness.

Learn more

Extreme heat can be dangerous. Knowing how to prepare and keep cool will help you stay safe and healthy. Find more information, tips, resources and active local heat alerts at hkpr.on.ca