OMA Reminding People to Stay Safe and Stay Cool as Heat Warning Issued

Toronto, ON, September 5, 2014 - After an unseasonably cool summer, humidex values are forecast to climb to 40 degrees today in Toronto and the GTA. Ontario’s doctors want to remind the public to stay safe and stay cool as heat alert is issued today.

Hot summer weather and heat events, such as the heat alert issued for today, can put people at risk of suffering a heat illness. Heat illnesses include heat exhaustion, heat edema (swelling of hands and feet), heat rash, and the most serious, heat stroke. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and must be quickly attended to with medical care and cooling methods.

There are many ways to protect yourself and others from heat illnesses. Children and seniors are most vulnerable to the effects of hot, humid weather. Here are some tips to beat the heat and stay cool:

• Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of cool liquids. You can boost your child’s intake of liquid by providing more fruits and vegetables, which have high water content.
• Keep cool – Dress in loose-fitting, breathable clothing; use an air conditioner or fan; and try to avoid cooking meals that require using the oven. You can run a cool bath for your child to help cool them down.
• Be heat smart – Reschedule or plan activities for cooler parts of the day; and if you do go outside try to stay in shady areas. Try moving activities or exercise indoors to an air conditioned space.
• Stay alert – Pay attention to how you feel. Watch for symptoms of heat illness, which include dizziness, headache, nausea or feeling faint.

Quote:
“We all want to get outside and enjoy these last days of summer, but it is important to take precautions when temperatures and humidity values rise to warning levels. Heat illnesses are serious and so we are reminding everyone to follow a few simple tips to stay safe and stay cool.”

Dr. Ved Tandan
President, Ontario Medical Association

For more information, please contact:
OMA Media Relations at 416.340.2862 or toll-free at 1.800.268.7215, ext. 2862
media@oma.org @OntariosDoctors