Brantford, Ontario – With the arrival of warmer weather, Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) is reminding people to take precautions and stay safe when outside during extreme heat.
GEPH issues heat alerts when Environment and Climate Change Canada issues a yellow-level heat warning for any part of our region. Yellow-level warnings are typically issued when the forecast calls for two consecutive days with a maximum daily temperature of 31°C or higher during the day and a minimum temperature of 20°C or higher during the evening, or a humidex of 40°C or higher. Extended heat alerts are issued when the current heat warning extends into the third day.
Hot and humid weather can increase the risk of heat-related illness for everyone, particularly older adults, infants and young children, people with chronic health conditions, people who work or exercise outdoors, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those without access to air-conditioned spaces.
Extreme heat can worsen existing health conditions and may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Warning signs of heat-related illnesses include dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, weakness, confusion, fainting, and rapid breathing or heartbeat. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.
Sun exposure during extreme heat can pose serious health risks. Anyone can develop skin cancer, regardless of skin colour. UV rays can still damage skin on cloudy or cool days.
To protect yourself, and others, in extreme heat:
- Drink water frequently. Thirst is not an accurate measure of dehydration.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks.
- Get out of the heat by spending time in an air-conditioned space or in a shaded outdoor area.
- If air conditioning is unavailable, improve indoor airflow by using fans or creating a cross-breeze.
- Keep indoor areas cooler by closing blinds or curtains during the day and minimizing the use of appliances that generate heat.
- Take cool showers or baths to help lower body temperature.
- Limit time in the sun and schedule outdoor activities for cooler times of the day. Wear light, loose clothing, sunglasses, and apply water-resistant SPF 30 sunscreen when the UV index is 3 or higher.
- Never leave pets or children unattended in parked vehicles.
- Regularly check-in on family, friends or neighbours, especially older adults living alone or those with health conditions.
Some medications can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. Ask your healthcare provider if you are unsure.
Visit www.geph.ca for heat safety and follow GEPH on Facebook, Instagram, and X, to stay up to date on extreme heat alerts.
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“With the arrival of warmer weather, it’s important to remember that extreme heat can affect anyone, but especially vulnerable populations. Many heat-related illnesses can be prevented. As temperatures rise this summer, we urge everyone to treat this seriously and take the precautions we’ve outlined in order to prevent heat-related illness and keep you and your family protected in the sun. Further, please be sure to regularly check in on any loved ones or neighbours that may be particularly vulnerable. Thank you for doing your part in keeping our communities healthy throughout summer.”
- Dr. Jason Malenfant, Medical Officer of Health, Grand Erie Public Health
Grand Erie Public Health
As one of Ontario’s public health units, we are determined defenders of community health. Our public health focus on prevention, protection, and promotion contributes to healthier outcomes across Brantford, Brant, Haldimand, and Norfolk.
We are unshakeable in our commitment to being a trusted and authentic source of public health knowledge, guided by the Health Protection and Promotion Act and the Ontario Public Health Standards. We safeguard the well-being of everyone – no matter who they are or where they come from.