OHSWEKEN — The Medical Officer of Health for Brant County has issued a heat warning on June 9.
Temperatures across Southern Ontario are expected to soar with the humidex going into the high 30s, possibly inching toward the 40 degree mark Wednesday as the region is covered by a tropical air mass.
Heat warnings are issued when Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts a maximum daily temperature higher than 31 degrees Celsius during the day and a minimum temperature of 21 degrees Celsius during the evening, or a humidex higher than 40 degrees Celsius.
The alert will stay in effect until a cancellation notice is issued.
Six Nations of the Grand River issued a statement alerting community members, the elderly and infants and people with chronic medical conditions to take precautions during this heat spell.
Be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illness including: extreme thirst and decreased urination, dizziness or fainting, rapid breathing, vomiting, and rapid heartbeat.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the above symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
The council and Ohsweken Public Health also said that negative health impacts can still be felt even after the weather cools off, so be sure to check-in on your loved ones regularly.
Some safety tips to consider during a heat warning are; to seek shelter in a cool shaded place, sit or lie down and apply cool water to your face, drink water every 15 to 20 minutes, stay in the shade as much as possible and apply sunscreen lotion and UVA and/or wear UVB protected sunglasses if you must be outdoors.
As well, it is reminded to never leave a child or pet in a parked vehicle, avoid extreme physical activity outdoors during while the heat warning is in effect, wear hat and loose-fitting clothing, take a cool bath/shower or cool down with wet towels. Avoiding heavy meals and using your oven, and keeping electric lights turned off, and window coverings such as curtains and blinds are closed.
Six Nations Parks and Recreation facilities continue to be closed to the public at this time. Plans will be announced publicly as soon as they are finalized.
For more information regarding how to stay safe during a heat wave, please contact the Ohsweken Public Health at 519-445-2672.
