Health Department begins heat monitoring for 2023 summer season

First heat warning issued for 2023

Whitby, Ontario - Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a heat warning for the south Durham Region area for June 1 and 2. This is the first heat warning of 2023 under Durham Region Health Department’s seasonal Heat Warning and Information System.

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.

A heat warning occurs when forecasted conditions include a daytime high of at least 31°C and overnight temperatures of 20°C or greater, or with humidex (humidity index) values of at least 40 for two or more days. The humidex value describes how hot the weather feels to the average person, by combining the effect of heat and humidity.

The Health Department is advising area residents to take precautions to prevent heat-related illness during the heat warning. While extreme heat can put everyone at risk, health risks are greatest for infants and young children, people who are age 60 or older, live alone, take certain medications, lack secure housing, have an existing health condition, have limited resources, have limited physical mobility or who work or exercise outside. Those who take medication or have a health condition should ask their doctor or pharmacist if medications can increase their health risk in the heat and follow the appropriate recommendations.

Never leave infants and young children inside a parked vehicle. This is especially important as when the outside air temperature is 23ºC/73ºF, as the temperature inside a vehicle can be extremely dangerous and reach more than 50ºC/122ºF. Please call 911 immediately if you see a child left unattended in a vehicle.

Heat-related illnesses are preventable. If symptoms of heat-related illness are observed, immediately move the person to a cool place, provide water, and apply damp towels to body. Symptoms to watch for include:

Dizziness or fainting.
Nausea or vomiting.
Headache.
Fast breathing and heartbeat.
Extreme thirst.
Changes in behaviour (sleepiness or temper tantrums in children).

The most dangerous heat-related illness is heat stroke; symptoms include complete or partial loss of consciousness, confusion and high body temperature above 39°C or 102°F. If caring for someone with these symptoms, call 911 immediately. While waiting for help, move the person to a cool area, place wet towels, clothing or icepacks around the body, focussing on the neck, armpits, and groin areas.

Everyone is encouraged to stay alert and take precautions. Remember to visit neighbours, friends, and older family members—especially those who are chronically ill, living alone or without air conditioning—to ensure that they are staying cool and hydrated.

Take the following precautions to beat the heat and stay cool:

Drink water regularly. Don't wait to feel thirsty.
Layer damp towels on body or mist with water
Take cool showers or place feet in cool water.
Rest and limit physical activity.
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.
If the night is cooler, open windows to cool home
Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.

Stay up to date on news and updates from Environment and Climate Change Canada. For more information about Durham Region’s Heat Warning and Information Systems—as well as more tips on how to stay safe and what to do during extreme heat—please visit durham.ca/heat, or contact 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.