Your EnvironmentExtreme Heat
Extreme heat can harm your health. When it is very hot, our bodies sometimes cannot cool down quickly enough. This can lead to things like dehydration, fainting, heat rash, heat cramps and heat stroke. In the worst cases, it can be life threatening.
You can check whether there is an active heat warning here.
Who's at Risk?
While everyone is at risk during extreme heat, some people are more vulnerable than others. For example:
- Children and infants
- Older adults, particularly if frail and isolated
- People who exercise in the heat
- Individuals with chronic illness or those who are physically impaired
- Individuals taking medications that affect heat sensitivity
- Individuals depending on others for assistance with daily living or communication
Symptoms of Heat-Related Illness
It is important to know the symptoms of heat-related illness so that you can take steps to cool down. Symptoms may include:
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Rapid breathing and rapid heartbeat
- Extreme thirst
- Decreased urination with unusually dark, yellow urine
If you experience any of these symptoms, cool down by moving to a shaded or air conditioned area, drinking plenty of fluids and resting. Call your healthcare provider.
Sometimes, heat-related illness can develop into something more serious, known as heat stroke. Symptoms of heat stroke may include:
- High body temperature;
- Loss of consciousness (fainting);
- Confusion;
- Lack of sweating.
Important: if you or someone you know has any of these symptoms call 911. This is a medical emergency.
How to Protect Yourself
- When it is hot, drink plenty of fluids (water is best). Do not wait until you feel thirsty.
Cooling Locations
Do you need a place to cool off? Cooling locations are available across Chatham-Kent. Municipal offices are open to stop in, sit, drink water, and cool off. Office Hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.
- Blenheim | 35 Talbot Street
- Chatham | 435 Grand Ave West
- Dresden | 485 George Street
- Ridgetown | 45 Main Street East
- Tilbury | 17 Superior Street
- Wallaceburg | 786 Dufferin Avenue
Heat Warnings
Sometimes, outdoor heat can be extreme. When this happens, you are at greater risk of heat-related illness and heat stroke. It is important to take steps to stay cool. CK Public Health will issue an extreme heat warning when Environment and Climate Change Canada has forecasted:
Heat Warning
CK Public Health may issue a heat warning when:
- There are 2 or more days where daytime maximum temperatures are expected to reach 31 degrees Celsius or warmer and nighttime minimum temperatures are expected to fall to 21 degrees Celsius or warmer; OR
- There are 2 or more days where humidex values are expected to reach 42 degrees Celsius or higher.
Extended Heat Warning
CK Public Health may issue an extended heat warning when:
- Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a heat warning that is expected to last 3 or more days.
Heat Emergency
CK Public Health may declare a Heat Emergency when:
- There is a higher than normal risk that people will get sick during a heat event because of other factors that make the heat event more dangerous, such as a large power outage or a drinking water emergency.