HPE Public Health issues heat warning

Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health is issuing a heat warning through the next couple of days.

A heat warning is issued any time there will be two straight days of temperatures of 31 degrees or higher during the day, 20 degrees or more at night and humidex values of 40 or more.

The public health agency says the extreme temperatures can lead to various illnesses like heat stroke, heat exhuastion or fainting, heat rash and heat cramps, and older adults, kids and those with breathing difficulties or heart conditions are at the highest risk.

Some symptoms of heat-related illness include:

• dizziness, headache or fainting;

• nausea or vomiting;

• rapid breathing and heartbeat;

• extreme thirst; and

• decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine.

You can also try to beat the heat with the following tips:

• stay well hydrated, drink before feeling thirsty (plain water is best);

• stay in an air-conditioned place (home, shopping mall, recreational facilities);

• avoid sun exposure (stay in the shade, wear SPF30+ sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat, UVA      & UVB protective sunglasses, and loose-fitting long shirts and pants);

• take cool showers or baths;

• block the sun out by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day;

• reschedule strenuous outdoor activities or plan them for cooler times of the day; and

• never leave people or pets in a parked vehicle or direct sunlight.

You can learn more about Health Canada’s heat illness prevention initiatives by clicking here.