Extended Heat Warning
Residents are advised that the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (HKPR) District Health Unit has issued an extended heat warning for Northumberland County.
The HKPR District Health Unit advises that Environment Canada is forecasting hot, humid weather starting May 26, 2020 and continuing until May 28, 2020.
- A Heat Warning is issued when the day-time temperature is forecast to be 31°C or higher, with a minimum day-time low of 20°C or higher, for two consecutive days. A heat warning can also be issued when the humidex is forecast to be 40°C or higher for two consecutive days.
- An Extended Heat Warning is issued when the same conditions apply above, but the heat event is expected to last for three or more days in a row.
The Health Unit encourages individuals to take steps to protect themselves during extremely hot, humid weather. 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 residents experience heat-related illness or symptoms, they should seek medical attention.
The Health Unit would like to remind residents of the following actions that they can take during this heat warning:
- 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, while abiding by physical distancing during this time of COVID-19. If you need assistance locating a public location, please contact the Municipality.
- 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.