FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Risk of heat related illness
HAMILTON, ON – Tuesday, July 12, 2005 - Environment Canada is forecasting several days of high temperatures. The Department of Public Health and Community Services is issuing this advisory so that people in Hamilton can take steps to protect their health.
The high day-time temperature combined with high humidity, which will impair the cooling effect of sweating, may put certain people at risk for heat-related illness. People who are elderly, or have chronic illnesses, mobility problems, or are taking certain medications, along with infants, pre-school children, and those exercising or working vigorously outdoors are at increased risk.
Risk of heat related illness can be reduced by:
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Drinking lots of water and avoiding alcoholic beverages and caffeine
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Staying in the shade if you must be outside
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Wearing a broad-rimmed hat and loose-fitting, light clothing
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Spending a few hours in places with air-conditioning. Examples include malls, a library, a community centre, or friend’s home
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Taking cool baths or showers or cooling down with cool, wet towels
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Avoiding heavy meals and avoiding using your oven
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Keeping electric lights turned off, and keeping window coverings closed, especially on the sunny side of the home
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Avoiding intense or moderately intense physical activity
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Never under any circumstances leaving a child or pet in a parked car or sleeping outside in direct sunlight
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Using fans (Note: they may not provide enough cooling in very high temperatures and humidity)
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Consulting your doctor or pharmacist regarding side effects of your medications
Rapid breathing, weakness or fainting, extreme tiredness, headache and confusion are signs of heat illness. Seek help right away – call 911 if needed. Residents are reminded to take the time to check in on a vulnerable neighbour or relative and perhaps offer to take him or her to an air-conditioned place for a few hours. Also, residents are asked to be respectful of pets and to not leave animals in areas where extreme heat or direct sunlight may be harmful to them.
For tips on coping with the heat and places where to cool off, the public can contact 905-546-CITY (2489) Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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Media Contact:
Stan Yung, Manager 905 546-2424 ext 5016
Health Protection Branch