With a hot few days ahead Huron Perth Public Health is cautioning all residents.
Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Perth County with humidex temperature reaching 40 degrees the next few days, with day time highs near 30 degrees, and overnight lows above 20 degrees.
HPPH is asking everyone to drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, wear loose fitting clothing, and never leave pets unattended in hot vehicles.
Ways to stay safer during a heat event include:
· Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before you feel thirsty to decrease your risk of dehydration. Thirst is not a good indicator of dehydration.
· Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.
· Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.
· Never leave people or pets in your care inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
· Take a break from the heat by spending a few hours in a cool place, such as a tree-shaded area.
· Take cool showers or baths until you feel refreshed.
· Prepare meals that don’t need to be cooked in your oven.
· Block sun out by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day.
· Avoid sun exposure. Shade yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat or using an umbrella.
Extreme heat affects everyone. The risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and people working or exercising outdoors.
Heat-related illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat fainting, heat edema (swelling of hands, feet and ankles), heat rash and heat cramps (muscle cramps). Watch for symptoms of heat-related illnesses, which include:
· Dizziness or fainting
· Nausea or vomiting
· Headache
· Rapid breathing and heartbeat
· Extreme thirst
· Decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine.
