With the heat wave we're in right now, the Windsor Essex County Health Unit has issued a statement.
Acting medical Officer of Health Dr. Wajid Ahmed has issued a Special Weather Statement for today.
He says the criteria for a heat alert or warning are not likely to be reached.
Dr. Ahmed stresses that everyone is at risk from heat, especially older adults, infants and young children, people who work or exercise in the heat and those with certain medical conditions.
Warning signs of heat-related illness include dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, weakness and confusion.
He's recommending you check on friends and neighbors who may be susceptible and seek medical attention is you experience any of the signs of heat illness.
Dr. Ahmed points out heat-related illnesses are preventable.
You can prevent a heat illness by following these tips to stay cool:
- Monitor local weather forecasts and warnings regularly – Stay up to date by visiting staycoolwindsor-essex.com or by following the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit on Twitter and Facebook.
- Drink plenty of water
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
- Take a cool bath or shower
- Limit outdoor activities to the coolest part of the day
- Do not leave children, adults or pets in parked cars
- Arrange for regular visits by family members, neighbours or friends during very hot days in case you need assistance
- If you have an air conditioner, make sure it works properly before the hot weather starts. Otherwise, find an air-conditioned spot close by, where you can cool off for a few hours during very hot days (e.g., local pool, library, recreational centre, mall). Call 211 for available options
- Learn about ways to keep your home cool during the summer (e.g., keep window shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home)