With extreme heat expected over the Canada Day long weekend, the Huron County Health Unit is reminding the public to take care to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Temperatures and humidex levels are expected to be very high for the next several days.
Public Health Inspector Chris Boyes says heat-related illnesses are preventable.
Suggestions include drinking plenty of cool liquids before you feel thirsty or planning any outdoor activity for cooler parts of the day. Never leave pets or people in a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight. And take a break from the heat by heading to a cool place like a library, or even a tree-shaded area. Eat cold meals, take cool showers, and keep windows covered inside.
Heat-related illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat fainting, heat edema (swelling of hands, feet and ankles), heat rash and heat cramps (muscle cramps).
Symptoms of heat illness include dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, extreme thirst and decreased urination.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately if you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature and is either unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating. While waiting for help cool the person right away by
“Getting too hot can make you sick, but heat-related illnesses are preventable,” says Public Health Inspector Chris Boyes. “There are things you can do to stay safer when heat warnings are issued.”
