Within our region, a heat warning will be issued by ECCC when either daytime maximum temperatures are expected to reach 31°C or warmer and nighttime temperatures fall to 20°C or warmer; or humidex values are expected to reach 40°C or higher for tow consecutive days. Extreme heat events can put people’s health at risk. When exposed to extreme heat, the body’s temperature control system can become overwhelmed and core temperature can increase. Sweating helps cool the body, however, when the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly. This will prevent the body from releasing heat quickly and high core temperatures can damage the brain or other vital organs. Exposure to extreme heat can result in heat related illnesses such as heat rash, cramps, exhaustion, stroke and fainting.
Everyone is susceptible to the effects of extreme heat, but children are especially vulnerable. Children have a high metabolic rate and produce more heat during physical activity. Their capacity to sweat is not as great compared to adults, so it is more difficult for them to release heat from their bodies. Also, the effects of dehydration are greater in children and they rely on others to provide adequate fluids for hydration. Children with diabetes, anorexia, obesity, developmental delays, cystic fibrosis, heart disease and diarrhea are at even greater risk of acquiring a heat related illness and need frequent monitoring.
To help prevent negative health impacts from extreme heat events, ensure children:
- Drink plenty of fluids (even more than their thirst indicates)
- Avoid caffeine or beverages with large amounts of sugar
- Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing
- Keep physical activity to a minimum
- Stay cool indoors and in an air conditioned place if possible
- Are in classrooms with the blinds/curtains drawn to prevent radiant heat from entering the room and fans to increase evaporation (when conditions are extreme, fans will not prevent heat related illness)
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sun screen when outdoors
- Seek medical care if they have symptoms of a heat related illness.