Although the weather today has been hot and muggy, it wasn’t enough to trigger specific advice from the Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU). After a one-day pause, the current Environment Canada forecast calls for the mercury to climb back up to a high of 31º Celsius tomorrow and Wednesday with Humidex values of 39, surpassing the MLHU’s threshold for issuing a two-day Heat Warning for the next two days. The Heat Warning will remain in effect overnight Wednesday, into Thursday morning, as humidity and temperatures persist over the next two days.

“Even though there was no Alert in effect today, we have had a steady stream of hot weather and high humidity through much of the month of August. Those are conditions that a lot of us find to be very inviting, but it’s best to plan for the conditions if you’re going to be working or playing in the summer heat,” says David Pavletic, Manager of Environmental Health with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “Hydration and covering exposed skin should be at the top of any list that involves planning for outdoor activities. Keeping a water bottle, hat, sunblock and sunglasses close by and wearing light, loose-fitting clothing will provide the best protection you need.”

The MLHU recommends continuing to follow public health guidance to limit the potential spread of COVID-19. This includes maintaining two metres of physical distance from others, wearing a mask, especially indoors where physical distancing cannot be maintained, and cleaning your hands frequently. If spending time indoors, ensure that everyone is fully vaccinated.

In addition, the Health Unit suggests 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 or take breaks in an air-conditioned space.
• 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, 519-617-0570 (cell.)

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