As unusually high temperatures continue the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit has issued a heat warning.
Temperatures and humidex levels were high over the weekend, prompting the health unit to take precautions. The heat will continue for at least the beginning of this week. High heat and humidity can have a number of negative effects including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration and even death.
While everyone is at risk from extreme heat the elderly, infants, people with chronic illnesses and those spending time doing strenuous work are the most likely to be negatively affected. During heat warnings the health unit strongly suggests checking on neighbours or friends who are more likely to be affected. Some symptoms to watch for include nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, difficulty breathing, fever, severe headache or confusion.
There are many precautions that can be taken to avoid heat stroke and dehydration including; drink lots of water or fruit juices, avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, do not stay inside parked cars, wear loose fitting and lightly coloured clothing and avoid going into the direct sunlight for extended periods.
For more tips you can visit the health unit’s website at www.healthunit.org.
