The last weekend of August has brought with it some very hot and muggy weather. Despite there being a 40% chance of rain today, the Environment Canada forecast is calling for the temperature to reach a high of 32º Celsius with a Humidex expected to reach 42, enough to meet the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s criteria for a one-day Heat Alert. The temperatures are expected to continue being warm and humid overnight with a forecast low of 20 degrees, so the Heat Alert will remain in effect until Monday morning, when the daytime high is expected to reach 29º Celsius with a Humidex expected to reach 35.

“If you’re going to be spending any time outside today, you’ll want to have water close by and access to shade or an air conditioned space to get a break from the heat,” says Dr. Alex Summers, Associate Medical Officer of Health with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “Although we may think that summer is winding down, the weather conditions would suggest otherwise. The UV Index is also very high today, so make sure to use sun block and wear a wide-brimmed hat if you’re going to be spending time outside.”

While the Health Unit recommends continuing to follow public health guidance related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including wearing a face covering and maintaining physical distance, 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.
• 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 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:
Dr. Alex Summers, Associate Medical Officer of Health, Middlesex-London Health Unit