Extreme Heat

KFL&A Public Health has adopted a series of extreme heat thresholds to inform community residents, health care providers, and community service providers on the measures they can take to reduce the health effects of hot, humid, and smoggy weather.

Between May 1 and September 30, KFL&A Public Health monitors forecasted weather conditions and issues heat advisories when a hot or humid air mass is forecasted and heat-related health effects may occur.

Extreme heat can cause some people to experience heat illness, including heat stroke

Watch for symptoms of heat illness

• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea or vomiting,
• Headache
• Behaviour change

If you experience any of these symptoms during extreme heat, immediately move to a cool place and drink liquids (water is best!).

The main signs of heat stroke

• Core body temperature of 104 F or higher
• Loss of consciousness
• Confusion
• When the person stops sweating

Heat stroke is a medical emergency! Call 911 immediately if you are caring for someone experiencing these symptoms.

While waiting for help cool the person right away by:

• moving them to a cool place, if you are able,
• applying cold water to large areas of the skin or clothing, and
• fanning the person as much as possible.

Although everyone is at risk when an extreme heat warning is in effect, health risks are greatest for:

• older adults,
• infants and young children,
• people with chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, or diabetes
• people who take medications that increase sensitivity to heat or sunlight, such as certain psychiatric drugs, blood pressure medications, or diuretics
• If you are taking medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist if it increases your health risk in the heat and follow their recommendations
• people who work or who exercise in the heat, 
• people without access to air-conditioned spaces, and
• people experiencing homelessness.

Stay cool during hot, humid, or smoggy weather

• Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before feeling thirsty.
• Avoid sun exposure by staying in the shade, wearing a wide brimmed, breathable hat, or using an umbrella.
• Take a break from the heat by spending a few hours in a cool place, like one of our Cool Down Here! locations where you can access air conditioning free of charge.
• If outside, visit one of your community’s pools, splash pads, or beaches to cool down and take a break from the heat
• Reschedule strenuous outdoor activity. Plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, either early morning (before 11:00 a.m.) or late afternoon (after 4:00 p.m.), when temperatures and UV rays are less intense.
• Check regularly on those who have mobility impairments, heart conditions or chronic illnesses such as diabetes and asthma.
• Wear loose-fitting, light coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.
• Block the sun out by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day.
• Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
• Avoid making meals that involve using your oven, especially if you don't have air conditioning.
• If the air outside your home is cooler than the air inside your home, place a fan in the open window facing inwards to bring cool air into your space
• Listen to the local radio or other news sources for extreme heat health notices.

 KFL&A Public Health's extreme heat health response plan

Resources

• Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
• Ministry of Labour – Heat Stress 
• Health Canada – Extreme Heat: Heat Waves 
• Telehealth Ontario - 1-866-797-0000 - Free medical advice.