Friday, June 29, 2018 – Port Hope, ON
A heat warning has been issued by Environment Canada for Northumberland County, with temperatures and humidity expected to increase this weekend under continued sunny skies. Maximum humidex values are forecast to exceed 40 degrees Celsius on both Saturday and Sunday.
Public cooling stations in the Municipality of Port Hope are available at the following locations:
- Town Park Recreation Centre, located at 62 McCaul Street, open on
Saturday, June 30, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., closed on Sunday, July 1. - Jack Burger Sports Complex, located at 60 Highland Drive, open on Saturday, June 30, from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday, July 1, from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Port Hope Public Library, located at 31 Queen Street, open on Saturday, June 30, from
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., closed on Sunday, July 1.
Heat warnings are issued when very high temperature or humidity conditions are expected to pose an elevated risk of heat illnesses, such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, dehydration, heat rash and cramps. While heat events can affect everyone, those most at risk include: infants; the elderly; persons with chronic diseases; and those who are marginally housed.
Please check in with neighbours, vulnerable friends, family members and acquaintances, especially those who are chronically ill, to make sure they are cool and hydrated.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include: heavy sweating; muscle cramps; headache; fainting; paleness; weakness; tiredness; dizziness; and nausea. If you experience any of these symptoms during extreme heat, immediately move to a cool place and drink liquids – water is best.
Residents are advised to take the following precautions to prevent illnesses associated with heat exhaustion:
- Avoid outdoor sports activities or moderately intense physical activity.
- Never leave people or pets in your care inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
- Drink lots of water and natural fruit juices, even if you don’t feel very thirsty.
- Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee and cola.
- Avoid going out in the sun or heat when possible. If outside, stay in the shade and plan to go out early in the morning or in the evening when it is cooler.
- If your home is not air-conditioned, visit air conditioned locations such as shopping malls, libraries, community centres, a friend or family member’s house or a cooling centre.
- Keep shades, drapes, and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home, but keep windows slightly open – if you do not have air conditioning – use fans.
- Keep lights off or turned down low.
- Wear loose fitting, light clothing and a wide brimmed hat.
- Take a cool bath or shower periodically or cool down with cool, wet towels.
- Avoid heavy meals and using your oven.
For further information, please contact the Fire and Emergency Services Department at 905-753-2230
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
