Town of Gananoque urges residents to take precautions during hot, humid weather this weekend
The Town of Gananoque is urging residents to take precautions during the expected hot, humid weather this weekend.
“High temperatures and humidity are expected today and over the weekend and this may affect your health,” the Town said in an advisory.
Environment Canada and Climate Change issues warnings when the daytime temperature reaches 31ºC or higher and nighttime temperature are not cooler than 20ºC for at least two days, or there is a Humidex of 40ºC for at least two days.
“Becoming overheated can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and in some cases death. Even short periods of exposure to high temperatures can cause health problems.,” the Town said.
Anyone experiencing these symptoms after exposure to extreme heat should seek medical attention immediately:
- Nausea, dizziness, blurred vision
- Difficulty or rapid breathing
- Severe headache or confusion
- Convulsion
- Fever
“Everyone is at risk,” the Town said, “however the following people are in greater danger of being affected:
- Elderly
- People with chronic illness or who take certain medications
- Infants and preschool children
- People who have challenges with housing and shelter
- People who participate in physical activity or are involved in strenuous outdoor work for prolonged period”
Dr. Linna Li, Medical Officer of Health for the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, advised residents to keep cool and hydrated this week and to take additional precautions. “Do not leave children, adults or pets in parked cars or sleeping outside in direct sunlight. Consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the side effects of your medications.”
And, Dr. Lima advised residents to take particular care of their food and drink intake. “Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel very thirsty. Remember to take sips often and not to guzzle your drink. Eat foods that have high water content such as watermelon, grapes and oranges. Limit caffeinated beverages such as coffee and cola. Don’t skip meals, instead eat smaller amounts more often. If you can, eat a variety of foods that can be prepared safely without using the oven.”
Dr. Lima’s added further advice: “Avoid going out in the blazing sun or heat. If you must go outside, stay in the shade as much as possible. Wear loose fitting, light clothing and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors. Reduce the use of personal vehicles, stop unnecessary idling; avoid using oil-based paints and glues, pesticides and gas-powered small engines.Whenever possible go to an air-conditioned room or building.”
The Town provided additional guidance for those who don’t have air conditioning and are looking to find a way to stay cool, including a listing of cooling centres being set up in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark.
“In your house, keep electric lights off or turned down low. Keep window shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home. Use fans to draw cool air at night, but do not rely on a fan as a main cooling device during long periods of high heat and humidity,” the Town advised.
“To keep yourself cool, take a cool bath or shower periodically or cool down with cool, wet towels. Visit a local splash pad [or] visit a local beach.”
Weekly beach water testing results are found here: Weekly Beach Results – Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit