London, ON – Hot, hazy and humid weather is expected to move into our region for the rest of the week, as the Environment Canada forecast calls for temperatures that exceed the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s threshold for issuing heat-related advisories. With an expected high of 31° Celsius, the Health Unit is issuing a one-day Heat Alert for Wednesday, before the expected daytime high drops below the 30° Celsius mark for Thursday. The break from the heat will be short-lived however, as the MLHU is also issuing a three-day Extended Heat Warning, that will be in effect from Friday, July 17th to Monday, July 20th.

“We’re reminding the community to take the steps that will protect their families, their neighbours and themselves from the effects of the heat,” says Randy Walker, Public Health Inspector with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “We continue to recommend covering exposed skin, wearing a hat, drinking plenty of water, but we’re also still in the midst of the pandemic so we also need to keep two metres apart and wear a mask when physical distancing is challenging.”

Anyone who finds they are suffering symptoms associated with extreme temperature conditions should seek medical attention immediately either by calling 911 or going to the nearest Emergency Department.

The Health Unit recommends the following tips to avoid the risks of heat-related illness:

• 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, tea 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 and stop unnecessary idling; avoid using oil-based paints and glues, pesticides and gas-powered small engines.
• Seek medical attention if you experience extreme symptoms, or you believe others may be, as soon as possible.

Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit, 519-617-0570 (cell.)

Spokesperson:
Randy Walker, Public Health Inspector, Middlesex-London Health Unit