Environment Canada issued a multi-day heat event warning for the Creemore area this week. From Tuesday through Thursday, maximum temperatures were in the low thirties, with humidex readings in the high thirties to low forties.
Along with the hot, humid air came deteriorating air quality posing health risks for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and those working or exercising outdoors. Heat illness can cause swelling, rash, cramps, fainting and heat stroke.
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health unit has some advice for staying healthy when temperatures soar:
Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to consume liquids. By then you’re already becoming dehydrated.
Draw curtains or blinds to keep cool inside. If you must venture outside, stay in the shade, wear loose fitting, light coloured clothing and a broad-brimmed hat and keep physical activity to a minimum.