A HEAT ALERT has been issued for Lambton County by Lambton’s Medical Officer of Health based on Environment Canada’s forecast today which expects Humidex values of near 40 degrees.

The alert will remain in effect until Wednesday when conditions are expected to ease.

While heat affects everyone, the following groups are more vulnerable:

older adults

infants and young children

people with chronic illnesses

people working outdoors

low income earners and the homeless

People taking medication for a health condition should talk with their healthcare provider about the increased health risks in extreme heat and follow their recommendations.

Heat-related illnesses can lead to long-term health problems or even death.

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that may develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate replacement of fluids. Symptoms include heavy sweating, cool, moist skin, paleness and a fast, weak pulse. Fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and muscle cramps may also indicate heat exhaustion.

Heat stroke is very dangerous. It occurs when the body is unable to control its temperature, and core body temperature rises rapidly. Symptoms include complete or partial loss of consciousness or confusion, dizziness, headache, nausea, high body temperature, red, hot and dry skin (no sweating) and a strong, rapid pulse. If someone has these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

Lambton Public Health reminds everyone that heat-related illness is preventable: 

Limit time outdoors between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Avoid direct sunlight and seek shade.

Drink lots of water, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with alcohol and caffeine.

Avoid moderate to intense physical activity. Reschedule or plan outdoor activities to a cooler time of the day.

When outside, wear light, loose clothes, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Keep your house cool. Draw blinds, avoid using the oven and let cooler air in at night.

If you do not have air conditioning in your home, go to a mall, library or community centre, or visit a designated cooling centre location.