Health Department issues first heat warning for 2024 summer season

Whitby, Ontario – Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a heat warning for both the north and south Durham Region areas. This is the first heat warning of 2024 under Durham Region Health Department’s seasonal Heat Warning and Information System. Dangerously hot and humid conditions are expected for most of the week.

Throughout the summer, the Health Department will be posting information at durham.ca/heat to inform residents when heat alerts are issued and share resources, including information on local cooling centres, to help everyone stay cool. The Health Department will also provide updates through social media at X.com/DurhamHealth and facebook.com/durhamregionhealth.

A heat warning is issued when the weather forecast includes 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 residents to take precautions to prevent heat-related illness. While extreme heat can be harmful to everyone, health risks are greatest for infants and young children, and people who are 60 and older, who are pregnant, who live alone, who take certain medications, who lack secure housing, who have an existing health condition, who have limited resources, who have limited physical mobility, or who work or exercise outside. Individuals who have a health condition or take certain medications should ask their doctor or pharmacist if these health conditions or medications might increase their health risk in the heat and follow the appropriate recommendations.

Residents are reminded to never leave infants and young children inside a parked vehicle. This is especially important when the outside air temperature is 23ºC (73ºF), as the temperature inside a vehicle can be extremely dangerous and can reach more than 50ºC (122ºF) very quickly. 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 affected person to a cool place, provide water, and apply damp towels to their body. Symptoms to watch for include:

• Dizziness or fainting
• Swelling of hands, feet, or ankles
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Fast breathing and heartbeat
• Extreme thirst or fatigue
• Changes in behaviour (sleepiness or temper tantrums in children)

The most dangerous heat-related illness is heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. Symptoms include complete or partial loss of consciousness, confusion, and high body temperature above 39°C (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, focusing 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.

Everyone is encouraged to 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.

- 30 -

For more information, please contact the Health Department.