Chatham-Kent is in for a sticky few days.
Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the region, beginning tomorrow and running through next week.
As the first significant heat wave of the season, officials with CK Public Health are urging residents to take extra care to stay hydrated and cool as much as possible to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Those at greater risk of heat-related illness include older adults, those living alone, the very young, people with chronic illnesses, and even healthy people if they participate in strenuous activities and do not take precautions.
Municipal centres and libraries will be available to get out of the heat.
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.
- Regularly check on vulnerable friends, family members, and neighbours 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 and a wide-brimmed hat.
- 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
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.
