The next few days are going to be hot and muggy. The current Environment Canada forecast calls for a daytime high of 33º Celsius for tomorrow and an overnight low of 21 degrees, before Wednesday arrives with an expected high of 32º Celsius. Humidex values are expected to reach 34 on Tuesday. These forecast conditions have prompted the Middlesex-London Health Unit to issue a Heat Warning that will be in effect for the next two days, until rain expected on Wednesday cools local temperatures.

The Health Unit issues Heat Warnings when the forecast calls for two consecutive days of daytime highs of 31º Celsius or higher and overnight lows greater than 20º Celsius.

“We’re still in the midst of responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to call for physical distancing, but we know that the weather will encourage people to get outside, so we want them to take the necessary steps to protect themselves, their friends and their families,” says Randy Walker, Public Health Inspector with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “It’s absolutely important to use sunblock, wear a hat, drink plenty of water, cover exposed skin and not overexert yourself, but also to stay six feet away from others, wash hands or use a hand sanitizer often 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