The Medical Officer of Health for the City of Hamilton has called a Heat Warning effective starting today.
The Warning will remain in place until cancelled. In the event that the 40 humidex reading continues for 4 consecutive days, or the humidex reading is expected to be 45 or greater, the Medical Officer will issue a Heat Alert (Stage 3).
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.
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 at http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/environ/heat-chaleur-eng.php.
For tips on coping with the heat and places where to cool off, the public can contact 905-546-CITY (2489) Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or go to www.hamilton.ca/heat. Heat information online is available in several accessible formats and in 13 languages.
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