Heat warning issued for Sunday and Monday

SIMCOE MUSKOKA — After two hot days in Muskoka, the Simcoe-Muskoka District Health Unit is reminding everyone of a heat warning issued by Environment Canada for Sunday and Monday.

It means that people should be taking care not to overdo it, the health unit says.

The extreme temperatures will be restricted to the south end of the region.

When temperatures stay above 31° C for more than a day, or the humidity index exceeds 40° C, overexertion will increase the risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration or heat stroke.

During the heat, you should be taking care to avoid overheating.

Be sure to drink plenty of fluids (non-caffeinated). Don’t wait until you feel thirsty – that’s a sign that your body is already becoming dehydrated.

Stay cool indoors and if possible, seek out an air-conditioned place.

If you must be outside, stay in the shade and make sure you wear and reapply sunscreen, a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses and lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

Electric fans provide comfort by increasing evaporation, however when the conditions are extreme, fans will not prevent heat-related illness.

Keep physical activity to a minimum.

Draw blinds or curtains to prevent radiant heat from entering homes.

Infants and young children, the frail elderly and people with chronic lung conditions or taking certain prescription drugs are more vulnerable to harm from overheating. Keep tabs on these people to make sure they’re staying safe.

For more information about extreme heat, visit the health unit’s website at www.simcoemuskokahealth.org, or call Health Connection at 721-7520 (1-877-721-7520) Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.