The first heat warning of the season remains in place this morning.
The alert, issued by Environment Canada yesterday, continues through the day today.
Officials with Chatham-Kent Public Health say in high temperatures and humidity, your body may not be able to cool properly, which can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Signs of heat exhaustion may include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and intense fatigue.
Municipal Centres and Libraries will be available as cooling spaces for residents seeking relief from the heat when they re-open this morning.
Temperatures today are expected to hit 30 Celsius once again with humidex levels near 38 degrees before cooler weather moves through the region overnight.
Ways to help prevent heat-related illness:
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
- Never leave people or pets in a parked car.
- Seek cooler or air-conditioned spaces.
- If you are taking medication or have a health condition, ask your health care provider or pharmacist if heat increases your health risk. Be sure to follow their recommendations.
- Check on elderly family members and neighbors daily to make sure they are keeping cool.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
- Take cool showers or baths, or use cool, wet towels on your face, neck or arms.
- The use of a fan alone may not provide enough relief from the heat.
- Avoid strenuous activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is hottest.
- Avoid going out in the sun, if possible. If you are outdoors, wear sunscreen.
- Avoid heavy meals and using your oven.
- Keep curtains closed to block sun during the day.
For a list of available centres and their hours of operation, please visit: https://www.chatham-kent.ca/services/Pages/Contact-Us.aspx.
For a list of Library locations and their hours of operation, please visit: https://www.chatham-kent.ca/library/usingthelibrary/branches/Pages/Branch-Information.aspx
Homeless persons, and/or those lacking shelter, water, or food are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of extreme heat. Anyone experiencing homelessness should call the Homeless Response Line at 519.354.6628 (24/7) for support.
