Check in with neighbours and find a cool place to beat the heat
On Sunday, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Eileen de Villa issued a heat warning for Toronto until further notice, although it looks like the temperatures will return to a more seasonal norm of 23C on Tuesday.
During a heat warning, it is encouraged that we all take some time to visit family, friends and neighbours, especially isolated adults and seniors who are at risk of suffering from heat-related illness. Make sure they are able to stay cool and are drinking plenty of liquids.
To escape the heat, there are several air-conditioned places for people to go and rest indoors. More information is available at http:www.toronto.ca/health/keepcool.
The public are advised to take these precautions during a heat warning:
- Drink lots of cool water even before you feel thirsty.
- Go to air-conditioned places such as shopping malls, local libraries and community centres.
- Take cool showers or baths or use cool wet towels to cool down.
- Wear loose, light-coloured, breathable clothing and, when outdoors, wear a
wide-brimmed hat. - Avoid the sun and stay in the shade or use an umbrella.
- Reschedule or plan outdoor activities so they take place during cooler parts of the day.
- Make sure that elderly people, children or pets are not left unattended in a car.
Air pollution increases in hot weather conditions. Pay special attention to the hourly Air Quality Health Index levels and forecasts which are available here.
