Heat Warning - Staying cool during the heat wave

A heat warning is in effect, so let’s all take a few simple steps to stay safe and cool:

Drink lots of water 

Even if you’re not thirsty. Your body will thank you! Your body loses a lot of fluid through sweat as it tries to cool. Replenishing fluids will help prevent dehydration, regulate body temperature, support vital functions like your kidneys and muscles and reduce your risk of heat related illness.

Apply sunscreen generously 

If you have to spend time outside be sure to apply sunscreen before heading out and reapply every couple of hours, especially if you're sweating or swimming.

Stay inside if you can, especially during the hottest parts of the day. 

Got AC? Great! If not, try to hang out in a cool public spot like, campus, a community centre, library or mall.
Need to find a Cooling Centre? Here's where to look in our Campus communities.

• London: https://london.ca/cooling-centres
• St. Thomas: https://www.swpublichealth.ca/community-health/environmental-health/weather-alerts/extreme-heat/
• Woodstock: https://www.cityofwoodstock.ca/en/residential-services/heat-warnings.aspx
• Simcoe: https://hnhu.org/health-topic/safety/weather-safety/

Dress light 

Choose loose, breathable clothes and a hat if you’re heading out.

Take it easy 

Avoid heavy activity during peak heat. If you're looking to get out for a walk or workout, early mornings or evenings will be the best. 

Check in on loved ones 

Heat is hard on everyone, be sure to check on your neighbours, family and friends, especially seniors, young kids, and anyone who might need a hand.

Don’t forget your pets! 

Make sure they’ve got shade and fresh water, and never leave them in a parked car and watch out for hot pavement and asphalt, it can cause discomfort, blisters and burn a pet's paw pads

Watch for the effects of heat illness

Know what to look for: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions.

Stay updated with local alerts and weather updates

• Middlesex-London Health Unit (London and Middlesex)
• Southwestern Public Health (St. Thomas and Woodstock)
• Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit (Simcoe)
• Environment Canada 

Let’s look out for each other and keep cool! Share this to help spread the word.