Resources for the General Public

Understanding the risk factors involved during a heat wave is the first step to protecting yourselves from the effects of extreme heat.

Risk factors include Age, Pregnancy Status, Psychiatric history, Medical history, Medication, Substance Use, Social and Physical environment

Here are some ways to keep yourself and your loved ones safe during a heatwave:

It is important to protect yourself and loved ones from heat-related illnesses and emergencies.Refrain from going out and engaging in activities during the hottest parts of the day, especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plan activities for the cooler times of the day.  Always have water with you when you go outside and opt for lightweight, loose-fitting and light coloured clothing. Close the blinds or draw the curtains during the hottest parts of the day. Keep the windows shut until it is cooler outside than inside. In the evenings, let the cool air in by raising blinds, drawing back curtains and opening windows.  If you have air conditioning but your family or friends do not, invite them to your place to cool off.
Consume eight to 12 glasses of fluids every day. You can get your fluids from water, cold soup/broth and fruits and vegetables with a high water content, such as melons, strawberries, peaches, peppers and carrots.  Refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages, as they cause dehydration.Stay in touch with your friends and family every day to update them on your well-being. Keep an eye out for heat alerts and follow the advice provided by Environment Canada or your local public health authority.  If someone is exhibiting the signs of heat stroke (i.e., confused, hot, dry or sweating profusely, muscle cramps, rash, fainting or unconscious, seizure) call 911 immediately.Certain medications may interfere with thermoregulation and/or fluid balance, intensifying the risk of harm from hot weather. Heat can degrade or damage some medications and may require special storage.   Check with your doctor if you are following a restricted fluid intake diet. Your doctor may need to adjust your fluid intake during hot weather.

Resources

City of Toronto - Staying Healthy in Hot Weather
Click Here
City of Toronto Cooling Centres
Click here
Toronto District School Board - Hot Weather Resources
Click here
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