The current Environment Canada forecast is calling for high temperatures of 30º Celsius, and a humidex of 40 today, meeting the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s threshold for issuing a Heat Alert. The high heat and humidity expected throughout the day is a good reminder to dress in light clothing, take breaks from working outside and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. The one-day heat alert will remain in effect until Wednesday, June 30th, when rain is expected to help cool temperatures and bring the humidex below 40.

“While we are encouraging gatherings to remain outdoors as much as possible, anyone spending time outside today needs to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves, their friends and their families,” says David Pavletic, Manager, Environmental Health with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “Using sunscreen, wearing a hat, drinking plenty of water and making sure to take some breaks from the heat to cool off are important precautions to take if you’re going to be outside for any length of time today.”

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:
David Pavletic, Manager, Environmental Health, Middlesex-London Health Unit