The Regional Municipality of York issues heat advisory

 

Take extra precautions and reduce the risk of illness during hot and humid weather

 

NEWMARKET ??" York Region has issued a heat advisory today as a result of hot temperatures and high humidity.  York Region issues a heat advisory when Environment Canada issues a Special Weather Statement relating to extreme heat and humidity in our area.  Environment Canada has indicated these conditions will likely remain for the next three to four days.

 

The Ministry of Environment has also issued a Smog Advisory for today.  Poor air quality is common during extreme heat events.

 

Extreme heat can be hazardous to your health.  Certain people are most at risk of heat-related illness, including children, older adults, people who work or exercise outdoors and people with pre-existing medical conditions.  York Region public health offers the following preventative measures to help protect your health during hot and humid weather:

 

Find ways to stay cool

• Stay indoors in cool, well-ventilated areas
• Use fans with caution ??" keep a window or door open to bring in cooler air from outside
• If you do not have air conditioning in your home, go to places that do, including shopping malls, local libraries, public pools and community centres
• Dress in light coloured, loose fitting clothing
• Do not leave people or pets in parked vehicles

Reduce physical activity, especially in the full sun

If you must be outdoors in the heat, try to plan activities for early in the morning or in the evening when it is cooler, and rest frequently to allow your body temperature to cool down.  Follow the Canadian Cancer Society’s Sunsense Guidelines to reduce sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. or when the UV Index is 3 or more.  Seek shade, wear a wide brimmed hat and wear sunscreen SPF 30 or higher.  Take extra precautions to protect older adults, infants and children.

 

Drink extra fluids

Heavy sweating removes water, salt and minerals from the body.  Don’t wait until you are thirsty ??" on hot days increase your fluid intake regardless of your level of activity.  During heavy exercise lasting more than one hour, drink 16 to 32 ounces (two to four cups) of cool fluids each hour. 

 

Warning signs of heat-related illness can include dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, weakness and confusion.  If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

 

Poor air quality is common during extreme heat events

It is recommended that you check the Air Quality Health Index (www.airhealth.ca) before considering outdoor activities.   The Index is designed to help you understand what the air quality around you means to your health.

 

For more information on special weather statements issued by Environment Canada, please visit http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/warnings/sws_e.html

 

For more information on heat-related illness, please contact York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653 or TTY 1-866-252-9933.

 

For more information on The Regional Municipality of York, please visit www.york.ca

 

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