Heat warning issued by Grand Erie Public Health 24 hours after cancelling last alert
The Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) has once again issued a heat warning for the Brantford-Brant and Haldimand-Norfolk regions.
The alert was issued on Sunday at 11:16 a.m., 24 hours after the agency cancelled their last heat warning.
Temperatures on Sunday were expected to reach up to 30 to 34 degrees Celsius in Brant County, feeling more like 35 with the humidex, according to Environment Canada.
The weather agency also reported heat warnings in effect for much of southwestern Ontario, including Waterloo Region. They expected the heat and sunny conditions to continue into the week.
GEPH said heat warnings are issued when daytime temperatures are expected to reach 31 degrees Celsius and above with overnight temperatures more than 20 degrees Celsius or when the humidex is expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius.
Signs of heat illness
Heat illness is a serious concern when the mercury rises, especially in older adults, infants, young children, pregnant people, those with physical or mental illnesses, people with mobility issues, those who work outside and the homeless community.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness or fainting
Extreme thirst
Dark urine and decreased urination
Intense fatigue
Confusion or lack of coordination
Skin rash
Muscle cramps
Heavy sweating
Rapid breathing and heartbeat
Heat stroke, meanwhile, is considered a medical emergency.
Those symptoms include:
High body temperature
Very hot, red skin
Confusion or change in consciousness
Dizziness or fainting
If someone is experiencing heat stroke, experts advise moving them to a cool place, giving them water and placing ice packs on their body. Call 911 immediately.
Beating the heat
The key to avoiding heat illness is to plan ahead.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Know the weather forecast before going outside
Modify your plans according to the weather
Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, even before you feel thirsty
Avoid drinks that are high in sugar, caffeine or alcohol
Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric
Seek shade
Avoid sun exposure if you can
Take breaks as needed
Avoid using your oven
Take a cool shower or bath
Take a break by spending a few hours in a cool place
Close blinds and shades,
Turn on air conditioning or use a fan
Cooling centres
The best way to get relief from the heat and humidity is to seek out a designated cooling centre.
The Region of Waterloo has locations listed on their website. They include libraries, community centres, museums and regional offices.
The map also includes a list of public swimming pools and splash pads.
Protecting your pets
Leaving pets inside a hot vehicle, even for a few minutes, could be dangerous.
Dogs can experience heatstroke, which could lead to organ failure and, ultimately, death.
Signs of an overheated pet include:
Excessive panting
Drooling
Vomiting
Collapsing
Lethargy
Tongue can appear red or hang out of their mouth
If your pet is suffering from the heat, it's a good idea to gradually cool them down.
Experts suggest using a cool blanket or towel that is wet. Avoid using ice.
Owners should keep pets at home when the temperature climbs but if they need to go outside, keep them off the pavement as much as possible, only go for a short walk, or take them out in the morning or evening when it's cooler.
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