Cooling Centre
As the temperatures rise this week, a reminder to protect yourself from the heat and seek out cool spaces to find relief from the heat and sun.
The following locations are available to keep cool:
- The Jack Burger Sports Complex (JBSC), located at 60 Highland Drive.
- The Town Park Recreation Centre, located at 62 McCaul Street.
- The Port Hope Public Library (PHPL) - Mary J. Benson Branch, located at 31 Queen Street.
The Community Health Centres of Northumberland, located at 99 Toronto Road, is also a local cooling centre.
How to protect yourself from the heat
Heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke can be very dangerous, especially for infants, older adults, and people with chronic diseases. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, headache, fainting, paleness, weakness, tiredness, dizziness, and nausea. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should seek medical attention.
During a heat warning, or anytime when temperatures become uncomfortably warm, you can protect yourself by:
- Avoid going out in the sun or heat when possible.
- Stay cool, and if possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, seek a cool public location.
- When outdoors, stay in the shade as much as possible. If you plan to go outside during a very hot day, do so early in the morning or evening, when it is cooler.
- Avoid outdoor sports and physical activity.
- Wear loose-fitting, light clothing and a wide brimmed hat.
- Drink lots of water, even if you do not feel very thirsty. Avoid alcohol, coffee/tea and pop.
- Check in regularly with vulnerable family, friends, neighbours, and others who could be affected by the heat. These include children, older adults, and persons with chronic illnesses. Make sure they are OK and are well-hydrated.
- Eat light, cool foods, and avoid heavy meals that involve using the oven or other hot appliances.
- Keep shades, drapes and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home, but keep windows open slightly. If you do not have air conditioning, use fans.
- Keep lights off or turned low.
- Take a cool bath or shower periodically, or cool down with cool, wet towels.
- Never leave a child or pet in a closed, parked vehicle.
2023-07-26