Although there is still about a month left in spring, our region is getting an early taste of summer weather over the next three days, prompting the Middlesex-London Health Unit to issue a series of three Heat Alerts today. The current Environment Canada forecast calls for temperatures to reach 31º Celsius today, tomorrow and again on Wednesday, May 27th, exceeding the Health Unit’s Heat Alert threshold. Conditions will also feel very muggy with Humidex values reaching 39 today and 37 tomorrow.

While temperatures are expected to reach 31º Celsius over the next three days, the Health Unit is not issuing an Extended Heat Warning, as daytime lows will be below 20º Celsius.

“The early arrival of this very warm weather will make it tempting to spend time outside taking part in summertime activities, but it’s important to remember that we’re still in the midst of a pandemic and we need to take precautions,” says Randy Walker, Public Health Inspector with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “We want you to remember to cover exposed skin, use sunblock, wear a hat, drink plenty of water, don’t overexert yourself, and also to remember physical distancing and avoid gathering in groups.”

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 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:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit,
519-663-5317 ext. 2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell.)

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