Summer arrives tomorrow accompanied by hot temperatures, as Saturday’s Environment Canada forecast calls for a daytime high of 31º Celsius, exceeding the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s threshold for issuing a Heat Alert. Though the Heat Alert will only be in effect tomorrow, based on the current forecast, the rest of the weekend will feature temperatures just below the Health Unit’s benchmark, prompting a reminder to residents about how to beat the heat.

“Summer is bringing the heat this weekend, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead if you will be spending time outdoors over the next few days,” says Randy Walker, Public Health Inspector with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “If you decide to head out and enjoy the summer weather, remember to cover exposed skin, wear a hat, drink plenty of water, ensure that you maintain physical distancing and avoid gathering in groups larger than 10.”

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 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