Environment Canada has issued a Heat Warning for parts of the Middlesex and London region, specifically Strathroy, Komoka and western Middlesex County. The warning begins today and will likely be in place until Wednesday, September 6. It is anticipated that as the week progresses, daytime highs will be between 31 to 35 degrees Celsius, with the hottest days expected to be on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The Middlesex-London Health Unit is reminding the public to take steps to stay cool and to keep hydrated during this late summer heatwave. 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Heat Warnings are issued when one or more of the following criteria are met:

• Environment Canada issues a forecast calling for a daytime high of 31º Celsius or higher and a forecast low of 20º Celsius or higher for two consecutive days, or;
• Environment Canada issues a forecast calling for a Humidex of 40º Celsius or higher for two consecutive days, or;
• Environment Canada Forecasters anticipate that actual temperatures and humidex values in London and Middlesex County will reach the thresholds noted above.

For more information on heat-related illness, visit our website.

Media Contact:

Tracey Gordon, Manager On-Call, Middlesex-London Health Unit, 226-980-8468 (cell)

Spokesperson:
Dr. Alex Summers, Medical Officer of Health, Middlesex-London Health Unit