Extended Heat Warning for City of Hamilton - July 22, 2016
HAMILTON, ON – July 22, 2016 - The Medical Officer of Health for the City of Hamilton has extended the Heat Warning issued July 20, 2016.
An extended period of hot and humid weather will continue today and persist into the weekend. High temperatures are expected to reach or exceed 33°C today with accompanying humidex values of over 40°C also anticipated.
The City and its community partners are responding to the extreme heat warning in the following ways:
- There are many spray pads, additional cool places, and outdoor pools with extended operating hours available across Hamilton. Visit www.hamilton.ca/heat for more information.
- Regularly scheduled public, family, adult and senior swims are free of charge at City of Hamilton indoor and outdoor pools.
- The Salvation Army has launched its mobile water distribution response and is distributing water to citizens in need of hydration.
The combination of temperature and humidity can impair the cooling effect of sweating, and increase the risk of heat-related illness. People who are elderly, or have chronic illnesses, mobility problems, are taking certain medications, or spend much of their time alone, along with infants, pre-school children, and those exercising or working vigorously outdoors are most vulnerable to the effects of heat and humidity.
Risk of heat-related illness can be reduced by following these recommendations:
- Drink plenty of water. Avoid drinking alcoholic and caffeinated beverages on hot days.
- Go to an air-conditioned place. Visit a cool place such as a mall, public recreation centres, public libraries, and other City run air-conditioned facilities, etc.
- Dress to protect from the heat. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light coloured clothing. Wear a hat or take an umbrella to keep your head cool and don’t forget sunscreen.
- Take it easy. Limit physical activities (walking, running, gardening, etc.) during the day. If rescheduling activities to dawn or dusk when it may be cooler, protect yourself with insect repellent as mosquitoes are more active at such times. Check labels to apply.
- Cool off. Take a cool bath or shower.
- Keep your living space cool. Close your blinds or curtains. When the temperature is cooler outside than inside; open windows to let air circulate when using a fan.
- Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles. Temperatures in a car can become life threatening within minutes.
- Check on your neighbours and family.
Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin; weak pulse, fainting and vomiting. If experiencing symptoms, seek help right away – call 911 if needed. For more information on how heat affects human health, see Health Canada’s website.
For tips on coping with the heat and places where to cool off, the public can contact 905-546-2489 Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm or go to www.hamilton.ca/heat.