The current Environment Canada forecast is calling for high temperatures of 31º Celsius on Sunday and 33º Celsius on Monday, meeting the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s threshold for issuing a two-day Heat Alert. While there will be a slight reprieve overnight on Sunday as temperatures drop down to 18º Celsius, the two-day heat alert will remain in effect until Tuesday, July 6th, when a mix of sun and cloud will bring the temperature down just slightly below the Health Unit’s threshold. Vigilance on Tuesday is still recommended, as temperatures will remain high, despite being below the Health Unit’s threshold.
“If you are planning to spend time outside in these temperatures it is important to plan ahead and take the necessary precautions to protect against the heat,” says Randy Walker, Public Health Inspector with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “Wear sunscreen, dress in light clothing, wear a hat, drink plenty of water and plan to take some breaks from the heat and sun to cool off if you’re going to be outside for any length of time.”
The Health Unit also recommends continuing to follow the public health guidance in place to limit the potential spread of COVID-19, including wearing a mask or face covering, maintaining a six-foot physical distance from others and cleaning your hands frequently. In addition, people are reminded of the following tips to avoid potential heat-related illnesses:
• Drink plenty of water and natural juices throughout the day, even if you don't feel very thirsty. Remember to take sips often and not to guzzle your drink.
• Never leave a child or pet in a parked car or sleeping outside in direct sunlight.
• Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, as well as coffee and cola.
• When possible, avoid spending too much time outdoors. If you must be outside, seek shade as much as possible. Plan outdoor activities in the early morning or evening.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.
• Keep shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home.
• Avoid turning on electric lights in your home.
• Take a cool bath or shower periodically or cool down with cool, wet towels.
• Wear loose fitting, light clothing.
• Avoid eating heavy meals and using your oven.
• Avoid intense or moderately intense physical activity.
• Use fans to draw cool air at night, but do not rely on a fan as a primary cooling device during extended periods of excessive heat.
• Reduce the use of personal vehicles, stop unnecessary idling; avoid using oil-based paints and glues, pesticides and gas-powered small engines.
Visit: www.healthunit.com/extreme-heat for more information on heat-related illness.
Media Contact:
Beth Milne, Communications Supervisor, Middlesex-London Health Unit,
519-617-0564 (cell.)
Spokesperson:
Randy Walker, Public Health Inspector, Middlesex-London Health Unit