Heat warning in effect in Hamilton

Hamilton’s Medical Officer of Health has initiated a Heat Warning for the city beginning Wednesday.

The heat event is expected to continue through Thursday. Maximum daytime temperatures of 30 to 32 are expected, with humidex values near 40. Overnight minimum temperatures will be 20 to 22 degrees Celsius.

A cooler airmass may arrive by Thursday night.

The City and participating community agencies are offering cool places to go during all stages of a heat event – the locations can be identified by a ‘Cool Down Here’ sign at the entrance – and all regularly scheduled open swims at municipal indoor pools will be free of charge.

For more information visit. www.hamilton.ca/heat

The Medical Officer of Health asked that residents watch for signs of heat exhaustion, such as heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, weak pulse, fainting and vomiting. If experiencing symptoms, seek help right away – call 9-1-1 if needed.

Reduce your risk of heat-related illness by following these precautions:

• Drink plenty of water. Avoid drinking alcoholic and caffeinated beverages on hot days.
• Go to an air-conditioned place. Visit a designated cool place.
• Dress to protect from the heat. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing. Wear a hat or take an umbrella to keep your head cool and don’t forget sunscreen.
• Take it easy. Limit physical activities (walking, running, gardening, etc.) during the day. If rescheduling activities to dawn or dusk when it may be cooler, protect yourself with insect repellant as mosquitoes are more active at such times.
• Cool off. Take a cool bath or shower.
• Keep your living space cool. Close your blinds or curtains. Open windows to let air circulate when using a fan.
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles. Temperatures in a car can become life threatening within minutes.
• Check on your neighbours and family.

Landlords can help to decrease the risk of heat-related illness for tenants. Connect with tenants to determine if units have adequate cooling. If not, provide tenants with onsite access to a cool space.