The current Environment Canada forecast for London and Middlesex County calls for a high of 31º Celsius tomorrow, with Humidex values of 42. These expected conditions have prompted the Middlesex-London Health Unit to extend the Heat Warning that is currently in effect into Friday morning, as conditions will remain hot and humid overnight Thursday with temperatures not dropping below 20º Celsius. The Heat Warning is expected to end Friday, as the forecast calls for a daytime high of 27º Celsius with some showers expected.

“Given the cumulative effect of prolonged high temperatures, humidity and intense sunshine, it is important to plan ahead and take frequent breaks if you’ll be spending any time outdoors tomorrow,” says David Pavletic, Manager of Environmental Health with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “It will also be a good idea to check on friends and family, especially those who are elderly, to make sure they are finding ways to stay cool. It’s also important to continue following public health guidance by maintaining six feet of physical distance from others and wearing a mask if you head indoors to public spaces to cool off.”

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.

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