As a result of extreme heat and humidity, Environment Canada has issued a Heat Warning for Halton Region starting August 23, 2020. This warning is issued when forecast temperatures are expected to reach 31 degrees Celsius or more with overnight temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius for two days, or when a humidex of 40 or higher is expected for two days.
Some of the locations that provided relief from heat such as libraries and community centres may not be open yet as part of the Province’s Stage 3 of reopening the economy. Therefore, it is extremely important that you check-in regularly, by phone or video, with vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, especially seniors who live on their own, to make sure they are staying cool and hydrated. This includes:
- older adults (over the age of 65), infants and young children, people who work and exercise in the heat, people without adequate housing and those without air conditioning
- people who have breathing difficulties, heart problems, kidney problems or take heat-sensitive medications
If phone or video is not possible, when checking-in with vulnerable individuals, remember to practice physical distancing and wash your hands regularly. If physical distancing is difficult to maintain, wear a non-medical mask.
Prevention tips
- drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water;
- avoid strenuous outdoor activities;
- seek shade from the sun;
- close blinds and shutters during the daytime and open them at night;
- take cool showers and mist yourself and your clothing with cool water to help keep yourself from overheating;and
- never leave people or pets in your care unattended in a car.
If you or someone in your care experiences rapid breathing, headache, confusion and lack of coordination, weakness or fainting, please seek medical attention right away by calling 911.