On Air Now

Now Playing

LU KALA

HOTTER NOW

Download

Long Weekend Heat Wave

stock photo

Southwestern Public Health and the Perth District Health unit have issued an extended heat warning for the region.

OXFORD COUNTY - Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement ahead of the extreme heat event that will persist for the next few days. 

Starting tomorrow, daytime highs are expected in the low to mid 30's, and feeling even hotter with the humidex.  There won't be much relief overnight either, with the temperatures holding steady in the low to mid 20's.

The heat may linger until the middle of next week, and with it but comes potentially dangerous conditions for some.

Southwestern Public Health is also issuing an extended heat warning for Oxford, Elgin and St. Thomas.  The Perth District Health Unit is issuing the same warnings to the community.  

The alerts come only when daytime temperatures are expected to reach 31 or higher for three or more days and the overnight low is 20 or more at that time.  

Vulnerable populations at risk should take extra precautions in these conditions.  Young children, pregnant women and seniors are at an increased risk for symptoms of heat-related illness.  In addition, those with pre-existing health conditions involving respiratory and cardiovascular systems, and diabetes, are also more susceptible to complications from the heat. 

Public Health Inspector, Kayla Elms says that the long weekend makes it even more serious.  

"There's going to be a ton of folks out working special events, so making sure that you are taking a lot of breaks, getting out of the sun, making use of the shade if you are going to be out for an extended period of time and limit the amount of time you are out side and make sure to get into a cool space." 
 

This extreme heat can lead to heat-related illness including rapid breathing, dizziness or fainting, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, and extreme thirst. 

Your body may make less urine, and your urine may be darker in colour. If you or anyone in your care has these symptoms, please move to a shaded or air-conditioned area, drink plenty of fluids, and rest. Seek medical care if the symptoms don't go away.
 
Elms says that understanding the symptoms of heat strokes is very important, as it can be considered a medical emergency. 

"They may be disoriented, fell very warm themselves, rapid heart rate, increased breathing, dizziness, nausea; if your experiencing any of those symptoms, absolutely get out of the sun right away and hydrate and cool off as quickly as possible."

She adds that you should call 911 immediately if you or someone you care for is unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating.
 
Remembering your neighbours, friends, and family over the next few days is a good idea, and most importantly, taking  preventative measures in assisting them to stay cool.  
 
Quick Tips from Southwestern Public Health to prevent heat-related illness:

·         Drink plenty of fluids, especially water

·         Wear a hat and use sunscreen to protect yourself from direct sun exposure

·         Never leave anyone or pets in a parked car

·         Seek cooler or air-conditioned spaces, such as shopping malls, arenas or any other public areas

·         Follow recommendations for medications need to be altered due to the heat 

·         Check on elderly family members and neighbours daily to make sure they are keeping cool

·         Wear light-weight, loose-fitting clothing

·         Avoid intense or moderately intense physical activity outdoors
 

Click here to find the location of cooling centers close to you that are open this long weekend.

 

UPDATE (3:29 P.M.) - Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the counties of Oxford and Brant.

More from Local News

Comments

Add a comment

Log in to the club or enter your details below.
Rating *

Weather

Recently Played