Soaring temperatures prompt heat warning for Chatham-Kent

Article content

Chatham-Kent is in the midst of a multi-day heat wave, baking under a heat warning issued by Environment Canada.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

Try refreshing your browser, or
tap here to see other videos from our team.

Soaring temperatures prompt heat warning for Chatham-Kent Back to video

Maximum temperatures will be in the high 20s and low 30s, but, factoring in the humidex, it will feel more like the high 30s to 40s through Thursday. Temperatures are forecast to be several degrees cooler on Friday, according to Environment Canada.

“In high temperatures and humidity, your body may not be able to cool properly which can lead to heat-related illness, including heat exhaustion or even heat stroke,” the area public health office, Chatham-Kent Public Health, said Tuesday.

Those at highest risk include older adults, infants and children, people with chronic illnesses, those who are physically impaired and people taking medications that affect heat sensitivity, the health unit said.

Healthy people can be at risk if they participate in strenuous activities and do not take precautions.

“During a prolonged heat event, indoor air temperatures in homes can reach dangerous levels, as higher temperatures overnight do not adequately cool off the home,” the health unit said.

“People without air conditioning are at an increased risk of heat-related illness.”

Symptoms may include rapid breathing, dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, extreme thirst, and decreased or dark yellow urine.

“If you have these symptoms, move to a shaded or air-conditioned area, drink plenty of fluids and rest,” said the health unit. “Contact your health care provider, a friend or a family member.”

Heat strokes are a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if you’re caring for someone who has a high body temperature, is unconscious, confused, or has stopped sweating.

Friends, family, and neighbours should check on those who may be vulnerable to heat and may need help keeping cool, the health unit advised.

Chatham-Kent municipal offices and libraries are open to visit, drink water and cool off. Hope Haven, located at 183 Wellington St. W. in Chatham, is also available for cooling off.

Anyone experiencing homelessness and in need of further assistance, including transportation to cool locations, can call the Homeless Response Line anytime at 519 354-6629.

Ways to help prevent heat-related illness:

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
• Never leave people or pets in a parked car.
• Seek cooler or air-conditioned spaces.
• If you are taking medication or have a health condition, ask your health care provider or pharmacist if heat increases your health risk. Be sure to follow their recommendations.
• Check on older adults regularly to make sure they’re keeping cool.
• Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing.
• Take cool showers or baths, or use cool, wet towels on your face, neck or arms.
• Avoid strenuous activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is hottest.
• Avoid going out in the sun, if possible. If outdoors, wear sunscreen.
• Avoid heavy meals and using your oven.
• Keep curtains closed to block sun during the day.