Heat Warning Notification for the City of Hamilton effective July 5, 2016
HAMILTON, ON – July 4, 2016 - The Medical Officer of Health for the City of Hamilton has called a Heat Warning effective for July 5, 2016.
Current details
Conditions are expected to just reach the criteria for a heat warning, with the peak daytime temperatures reaching 31°C on Tuesday, July 5 and Wednesday, July 6, along with poor overnight cooling (overnight temperatures staying above 20°C) each night.
It is anticipated that temperatures will fall below the threshold by Thursday with expected highs of 27°C.
The City of Hamilton and participating community agencies are responding to the heat by offering “cool places” to go at all 3 stages. They can be identified by a “Cool Down Here” sign at their entrances, along with a heat meter sign, which indicates which stage we are at. As part of the heat response plan, the City’s outdoor pools will also have extended operating hours.
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. Heat information online is available in several accessible formats and in 13 languages.