Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Hamilton, Burlington and St. Catharines starting Monday and continuing into Tuesday.
The federal weather agency says daytime highs are expected to reach 31 C with humidex values of 35 to 38, adding that “there will be little relief” through the overnight as lows are expected to be 20 C or above.
A cooler airmass is expected to arrive Tuesday night, the agency says.
The office of the medical officer of health says the City of Hamilton and participating community agencies are responding to the heat by offering “cool places” to go during all stages of a heat event. These locations can be identified by a “Cool Down Here” sign at the entrance.
As part of the heat response plan, regularly scheduled Open Swims at all City of Hamilton indoor and outdoor pools will be free of charge. There are many spray pads, additional cool places and outdoor pools across Hamilton. More information is available on the city’s website.
What to watch for during heat events
During heat events, people are advised to watch for the effects of heat-related illness.
Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, weak pulse, fainting and vomiting. If you’re experiencing those symptoms, seek help right away and call 9-1-1 if needed, the city says.
The office of the medical officer of health says people can reduce their risk of heat-related illness by following the following precautions:
- Drink plenty of water. Avoid drinking alcoholic and caffeinated beverages on hot days.
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Go to an air-conditioned place. Visit a designated cool place listed on on the city’s website.
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Dress to protect from the heat. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light coloured clothing. Wear a hat or take an umbrella to keep your head cool and don’t forget sunscreen.
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Take it easy. Limit physical activities (walking, running, gardening, etc.) during the day. If rescheduling activities to dawn or dusk when it may be cooler, protect yourself with insect repellant as mosquitoes are more active at such times. Check labels to apply.
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Cool off. Take a cool bath or shower.
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Keep your living space cool. Close your blinds or curtains. Open windows to let air circulate when using a fan.
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Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles. Temperatures in a car can become life threatening within minutes.
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Check on your neighbours and family.
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Landlords can help to decrease the risk of heat-related illness for tenants. Connect with tenants to determine if units have adequate cooling. If not, provide tenants with onsite access to a cool space accessible throughout the heat warning, such as a common room with air conditioning.