Heat Alert for Chatham-Kent

Dr. David Colby, Medical Officer of Health, has issued a Level 1 Heat Advisory for Chatham-Kent as humidex values may reach 40°C today.

• The Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit urges residents to follow these steps:
• Drink plenty of water.
• Go to an air-conditioned place.
• Wear a hat and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
• Take a cool bath or shower.
• Limit outdoor activities to the coolest part of the day.
• Check on your neighbours and family. • Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
• If you feel ill, faint, have difficulty breathing, or feel disoriented, visit your doctor or nearest hospital right away.

In an emergency, call 911. The Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit is advising residents and visitors to keep a close eye on family, friends, and neighbours who are at higher risk of heat-related illnesses. Those particularly vulnerable people include older adults, infants, pregnant women, young children, people with chronic illnesses, homeless individuals, and those who work or exercise outdoors in the heat.

Signs of heat related illness include:

• Heat cramps: painful muscle cramps in legs or abdomen
• Heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fainting
• Heat stroke: is a medical emergency, signs include headache, fainting, confusion or altered mental state

For more information contact the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit at 519-352-7270 or visit http://staycoolchatham-kent.com