Residents Urged to Take Precautions During Humidex Advisory and Smog Advisory
Waterloo - The Associate Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang, advises Region of Waterloo residents to take steps to prevent illness during the upcoming extreme heat and humidity event. With temperatures and humidity expected to rise on Saturday, Environment Canada has issued a humidex advisory. The Ontario Ministry of the Environment has also issued a smog advisory because of high air pollution levels.
All residents, and particularly those at the greatest risk of heat-related illness (e.g., older adults; infants and young children; people with chronic illnesses; people who work or exercise in the heat; and people who are homeless and/or live alone) are urged to take the following actions to stay cool:
- Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before feeling thirsty. Avoid drinks that are high in sugar, caffeine and/or alcohol.
- Take cool showers or baths until you feel refreshed.
- Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.
- Take a break from the heat by spending a few hours in a cool place.
- Block sun out by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day.
- Never leave people or pets in your care inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
- 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.
- Reduce activity level if you begin to cough, wheeze, feel chest tightness and/or have trouble breathing.
More tips on what to do during extreme heat and humidity are available on Region of Waterloo Public Health’s website or by calling 519-883-2008. 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: Vicki Ulman, Marketing & Communications, 519-883-2000 ext. 5608