The City of Pembroke is supporting us during the heat wave. For the time being, the city is providing bottles of water in three key locations for those who are vulnerable. Coolers with cold water are set up at the Riverside Park Field House, the Marina Boat House and the Upper Ottawa Valley Heritage Centre. Public places around town such as the Pembroke Mall, West End Plaza and the Pembroke Public Library are open for those needing a break from the heat.
Daytime temperatures are expected to be 30 to 35 degrees Celsius, with humidex values of 40 to 45 degrees Celsius. Overnight lows will offer no relief and will be around the 20 degrees Celsius mark with humidex making it feel closer to 30 degrees Celsius.
During extreme events, everyone is at risk, but some groups are more vulnerable than others. These include:
· older adults
· infants and young children
· people with chronic health conditions
· those who work in the heat
· people experiencing homelessness
· people without access to air conditioning are at greatest risk.
The City of Pembroke recommends taking the following actions to prevent heat related illness:
• Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before feeling thirsty.
• Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.
• Take a cool shower or bath until you feel refreshed.
• Take a break from the heat by spending a few hours in a cool place.
• Avoid sun exposure. Shade yourself by using a wide-brimmed hat or umbrella.
• Do not leave your pets or children in a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
• Plan outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day.
• Check in with neighbours and family members who may be at higher risk of heat related illness or who live alone, to ensure they are comfortable and well-hydrated.
Be alert of the signs and symptoms of heat illness:
• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Rapid breathing and heartbeat
• Extreme thirst
• Decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine
If you experience any of these symptoms during extreme heat, immediately move to a cool place and drink liquids. Water is best. If you don’t feel better soon after, seek medical help immediately.
For additional tips on how to stay safe and what to do during an extreme heat-related event please visit Emergency Preparedness | Renfrew County and District Health Unit. For more information visit www.rcdhu.com or call 613-732-3629 or 1-800-267-1097.
(Written by: Kyle Robinson)