With oppressive heat and humidity in the forecast in the coming days, the Middlesex London Health Unit has issued a heat warning.
Environment Canada is expecting temperatures in the London area to reach 34 C on Friday with humidex values in the mid-40s. The hot and muggy weather is likely to persist throughout the weekend. The health unit's heat warning will be in effect until Monday morning.
"Weather conditions which combine heat and humidity can have a serious negative effect on people’s health," the health unit said in a statement issued Thursday. "The Health Unit recommends that people limit the time they spend outdoors, that they avoid strenuous outdoor activity, seek shade or air-conditioned spaces when they can and that they drink water to stay hydrated. Over exposure to heat and humidity can lead to symptoms including headache, confusion, dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, and muscle or abdominal cramps."
According to the health unit, anyone who is experiencing symptoms associated with extreme heat should seek medical attention immediately. It says affected people should call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department.
The Health Unit has also released a list of recommendations on how people can avoid the of heat-related illness:
• Drink plenty of water and natural juices throughout the day, even if you don't feel very thirsty. Remember to take sips often and not to guzzle your drink. • Never leave a child or pet in a parked car or sleeping outside in direct sunlight. • Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, as well as coffee, tea and cola. • When possible, avoid spending too much time outdoors. If you must be outside, seek shade as much as possible. Plan outdoor activities in the early morning or evening. • Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors. • Keep shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home. • Avoid turning on electric lights in your home. • Take a cool bath or shower periodically or cool down with cool, wet towels. • Wear loose-fitting, light clothing. • Avoid eating heavy meals and using your oven. • Avoid intense or moderately intense physical activity. • Use fans to draw cool air at night, but do not rely on a fan as a primary cooling device during extended periods of excessive heat. • Reduce the use of personal vehicles and stop unnecessary idling; avoid using oil-based paints and glues, pesticides and gas-powered small engines
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