Heat Warning in effect for London – Photo by Daniel Monroy XFM News
The Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) has issued an extreme heat warning from Monday, June 23, through Tuesday night, June 24. London will experience daytime temperatures of 33 to 36 degrees and humidex values of 42 to 46. This is the first significant heat event of the season, with dangerously hot and humid conditions
“The heat comes with many inherent dangers, especially with children if left out for too long, as they can overheat at three to five times the rate of an adult and often can’t express their feelings. So parents and caregivers need to pay attention and minimize the level of heat and sun exposure during these days. “Said the Children’s Emergency Department Medical Director at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), Dr. Rodrick Lim.
Dr. Lim also advised Londoners to plan their day so they don’t end up in the sun longer than expected, to dress appropriately for the weather, and to consider hats and sun protection. Ensure to stay hydrated, and if using water to cool off, ensure water safety for children. And avoid leaving children alone in a car, as vehicle temperatures can heat up within a few minutes.
Meanwhile, Londoners had mixed reactions regarding the weather:
“I honestly don’t mind it. I need a day to adjust to it, and then I’ll be fine. Especially after the winter we had,” Says one Londoner interviewed by The X.
“I don’t like the hot weather. I hate it, it’s too bad we shouldn’t experience this.” Says another.
Here are some tips from the Middlesex-London Health Unit
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Never leave a child or pet in a parked car or sleeping outside in direct sunlight.
- Avoid drinking caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, including coffee and cola.
- When possible, avoid spending too much time outdoors. If you must be outside, seek shade as much as possible and plan outdoor activities in the early morning or evening.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.
- Keep shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home.
- Avoid turning on electric lights in your home.
- Take a cool bath, shower periodically, or cool down with wet towels.
- Avoid intense or moderately intense physical activity.
- Use fans to draw cool air at night, but do not rely on a fan as a primary cooling device during extended periods of excessive heat.
- Reduce the use of personal vehicles and unnecessary idling.
- Avoid using oil-based paints and glues, pesticides, and gas-powered small engines.
