Health Department begins heat monitoring for 2021 summer season

Whitby, Ontario - Durham Region Health Department will begin monitoring temperature conditions as part of the Durham Region Heat Warning and Information System for the 2021 summer season. The Health Department monitors information issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada to provide updates to area residents.

Throughout the summer, the Health Department will be posting information at durham.ca/heat to inform residents of conditions that indicate a heat warning will be issued, and will also use the Health Department social media channels to provide updates at www.twitter.com/DurhamHealth and www.facebook.com/durhamregionhealth.

“The Health Department will maintain our ongoing communication process with the various community groups and agencies that provide support to vulnerable populations,” said Sendi Struna, Manager, Health Protection with the Health Department. “We will continue to work with these community groups to issue advanced notices to ensure they have the information necessary to support individuals who may need assistance. We also encourage everyone to check the website and follow us on social media to stay informed and updated and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from heat-related health concerns.”

When heat warnings are issued, the Health Department advises area residents to take precautions to prevent heat-related illness during the upcoming heat warning. While extreme heat can put everyone at risk from heat illnesses, health risks are greatest for older adults, infants and young children, people with chronic illnesses such as breathing difficulties, heart conditions or psychiatric illnesses, people who work or who exercise in the heat, homeless people and low-income earners. Those who take medication or have a health condition should ask their doctor or pharmacist if these medications can increase their health risk in the heat and follow the appropriate recommendations.

Heat illnesses are preventable; however, these illnesses can lead to long-term health problems and even death. If any symptoms of heat illness are present, such as dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, or extreme thirst, immediately move to a cool place and drink liquids, especially water.

The most dangerous heat illness is heat stroke with symptoms that include complete or partial loss of consciousness, or confusion and high body temperature. If caring for someone with these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

Everyone is encouraged to stay alert and take precautions. Remember to frequently check in on neighbours, friends, and older family members, especially those who are chronically ill, to ensure that they are cool and hydrated. It’s best to call, text or videoconference, however, if these are not possible, be sure to adhere to public health measures including wearing a face covering and practicing physical distancing. For more information on COVID-19 public health guidelines visit durham.ca/novelcoronavirus.

Residents are encouraged to take the following precautions to beat the heat and stay cool:

• Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before feeling thirsty.
• Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.
• Take cool showers or baths until you feel refreshed.
• Take a break from the heat by spending a few hours in a cool place.
• Block out the sun by opening awnings and closing curtains or blinds during the day.
• Avoid sun exposure. Shade yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat or using an umbrella.
• Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.
• Never leave people or pets in your care inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.

For news and updates from Environment and Climate Change Canada, visit weather.gc.ca/warnings/report_e.html?on11. For more information about the Durham Region Heat Warning and Information System, or for additional tips on how to stay safe and what to do during extreme heat, please visit durham.ca/heat, or contact the Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.

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For more information, please contact the Health Department