The hot summer-like weather is back to start the shortened week, with potentially record-setting high temperatures in store for today. The current Environment Canada forecast is calling for a high of 32º Celsius, before cooler temperatures and the possibility of rain come tomorrow. Today’s expected daytime high exceeds the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s threshold for issuing a Heat Alert, generating a reminder to make plans for outdoor activities, including dressing lightly, taking breaks from working outside and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.

“This very summer-like weather naturally draws us outdoors, especially when we all feel like we’ve been stuck indoor for months. Anyone who is going to be spending time outside today needs to remember that a little planning goes a long way,” says Randy Walker, Public Health Inspector with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “Bringing some water along with you and planning to take some breaks from the heat to cool off would be important parts of planning for the day, especially if you’re going to be outside for any length of time today.”

The Health Unit also recommends continuing to follow the public health guidance in place to limit the potential spread of COVID-19, including wearing a mask or face covering, maintaining a six-foot physical distance from others and cleaning your hands frequently. In addition, 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. 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