Back to SearchKINGSTON – KFL&A Public Health is advising residents of Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington area to be mindful of the hot and humid temperatures and take the necessary steps to avoid heat related illnesses.
Heat illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat fainting, heat edema (i.e., swelling of hands, feet, and ankles), heat rash, and heat cramps (i.e., muscle cramps). It is important to watch for signs and symptoms for yourself, as well as those who are at risk. Signs and symptoms include:
- dizziness or fainting,
- nausea or vomiting,
- headache,
- rapid breathing and heartbeat,
- extreme thirst, and
- decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine.
If an individual is experiencing any of these signs or symptoms during periods of extreme heat, immediately move to a cool place and drink cool liquids.
While extreme heat can put everyone at risk from heat illnesses, health risks are greatest for:
- older adults,
- infants and young children,
- people with chronic illnesses, such as breathing difficulties, heart conditions, or psychiatric illnesses,
- people who work in the heat,
- people who exercise in the heat,
- homeless people, and
- low-income earners.
If an individual is taking medication or have a health condition, it is important to ask their family doctor or pharmacist if it increases the health risk in the heat and follow their recommendations closely.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 9-1-1 immediately if you are caring for someone, such as a neighbour, who has a high body temperature and is either unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating. While waiting for help - cool the person right away by:
- moving them to a cool place, if you can,
- applying cold water to large areas of the skin or clothing, and
- fanning the person as much as possible.
Heat related illnesses are preventable by taking the following actions:
- Frequently visit neighbours, friends and older family members, especially those who are chronically ill, to make sure that they are cool and hydrated.
- Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before you feel thirsty to decrease your risk of dehydration. Thirst is not a good indicator of dehydration.
- Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.
- Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.
- Never leave people or pets in your care inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
- Take a break from the heat by spending a few hours in a cool place. It could be a tree-shaded area, swimming facility or an air-conditioned spot such as a public building, shopping mall, grocery store, place of worship, or public library.
- Take cool showers or baths until you feel refreshed.
- Prepare meals that don't need to be cooked in your oven.
- Block sun out by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day.
- Avoid sun exposure. Shade yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat or using an umbrella.
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