Heat Warning

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued an extended Heat Warning for Waterloo Region. Hot and humid conditions will arrive Thursday and continue through the weekend.

A Heat Warning is issued when hot temperatures and humidex values are severe enough to affect all residents that may be exposed outside for an extended time. This warning is issued when Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts at least two days with a day time temperature of 31°C or above and the night time temperature is 20°C or above, or two days with a humidex of 40°C and above. In high temperatures and humidity, your body may not be able to cool properly which can lead to heat-related illnesses such as: heat rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke.

Symptoms of heat-related illness may include: rapid breathing, dizziness or fainting, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, extreme thirst and decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine. If anyone has these symptoms, we suggest the following to cool off as soon as possible: move to a shaded or air conditioned area, drink plenty of fluids, and rest. Contact your health care practitioner, a friend and/or a family member if you think that someone has a heat illness. Heat strokes are considered a medical emergency. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately if you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature, is unconscious, confused, or has stopped sweating. Friends, family, and neighbours should check on those who may be vulnerable and subject to any symptoms of overheating, and who may need help keeping cool or taking other preventative actions.

All residents have the potential to be affected by extreme heat-related weather conditions, depending on the length of time exposed and exertion levels. These risks are especially high for: older adults (over the age of 65), infants and young children, people with chronic illnesses, people who work or exercise in the heat, people who are socially isolated or are experiencing homelessness, people who cannot care for themselves, and people without access to air conditioning.

Tips for staying cool during high heat and humidity:

1. Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before feeling thirsty. Avoid drinks that are high in sugar, caffeine and/or alcohol.
2. Wear loose-fitting, light coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.
3. Take a break from the heat by spending a few hours in a cool place.
4. Seek cooler or air conditioned spaces, such as shopping malls, Cooling Centres (e.g., libraries, municipal buildings, and recreation centres), or other public areas.
5. Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.
6. Avoid strenuous activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is at its hottest.
7. Avoid going out in the sun, if possible. If you are outdoors, seek shade and wear sunscreen.
8. Never leave people or pets in your care inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
9. Take cool showers or baths, or use cool, wet towels on your face, neck or arms until you feel refreshed.
10. Avoid heavy meals and using your oven.
11. Block the sun out by closing awnings, curtains, or blinds during the day.
12. The use of a fan alone may not provide enough relief from the heat.
13. If you are taking medication or have a health condition, ask your health care practitioner or pharmacist if it increases your health risk in the heat and follow their recommendations.
14. Frequently visit neighbours, friends and older family members, especially those who are chronically ill or live alone, to make sure that they are cool and hydrated.

More tips on what to do during extreme heat and humidity are available on Public Health and Emergency Services’ Extreme Heat and Humidity web page or by calling 519-575-4400 (TTY 519-575-4608). Links to Cooling Centres offered by the municipalities and the Region of Waterloo can also be found on this website.

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Media contact: Julie Kalbfleisch, Manager, Information and Communications, 519-575-4400 ext. 2270