CK Public Health wants residents to be ready for the extremely high temperatures expected this summer.
"Preparation is key to staying safe during this upcoming heat season," said Dr. Shanker Nesathurai, Acting Medical Officer of Health for CK Public Health. "Extreme heat can pose significant risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as older adults, individuals with chronic conditions, and those experiencing substance use disorder."
Dr. Nesathurai said he encourages everyone to look out for friends, family, and those who are at-risk.
Some of the health unit's recommendations to be proactive include:
• Staying informed about weather forecasts and heat advisories in the area.
• Purchasing a wide-brimmed hat made of breathable fabric.
• Ensuring your air conditioner is serviced and in good working condition, or having a working fan for hot days.
• Making sure your home's windows have awnings, curtains, or blinds to block the sun on hot days.
• Planning ahead for accessible cool locations, such as shaded areas, swimming facilities, malls, grocery stores, religious centers, community centers, or libraries.
• Staying hydrated. Try to make it a habit to drink plenty of water before feeling thirsty to reduce the risk of dehydration. Prepare ice packs, cool water jugs, and ice ahead of time.
• Making meals that don't need to be cooked in the oven.
• Easing into summer activities as your body adjusts to extreme heat by starting gradually, staying hydrated, and taking breaks.
• Planning ahead to check on vulnerable individuals, such as seniors, young children, and those with chronic health conditions, to ensure they are coping well with the heat.
Cara Robinson, the health unit's Program Manager for Healthy Environments, said she encourages organizations that support work or play outdoors to establish extreme heat policies and strategies. She added that it's not just the employers responsibility to know how to handle the heat.
"If you work outdoors or participate in outdoor programming, make sure you understand how your employer or organization plans to address extreme heat," she said.