Summer Hazards are Upon Us

July 7, 2016

Huron County – With the hot summer weather upon us the Huron County Health Unit wants to remind residents to be aware of hazards that come with it.

Make sure to monitor the weather forecast and plan ahead for hot, sunny weather. Young children, babies and older adults are most at risk of experiencing illness such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Those without air conditioning or people who work or exercise outside can also be at risk of becoming overheated.

Donna Parsons, Public Health Nurse at the Huron County Health Unit, recommends taking the following actions to stay cool:

  • Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before feeling thirsty.
  • Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.
  • Take cool showers or baths until you feel refreshed.
  • Take a break from the heat by spending a few hours in a cool place.
  • 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.
  • Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.
  • Never leave people or pets in your care inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
  • Don’t forget to apply lots of sunscreen often. Use a broad-spectrum UVA and UVB of SPF 30 or higher.
  • If you are using both sunscreen and insect repellent, apply sunscreen 20 minutes before the insect repellent. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions when applying insect repellent.
  • Wear sunglasses with UV protection.

For more information and up-to-date weather conditions, please visit the Environmental Canada website at www.weather.gc.ca. Sign up for weather alerts in your area at www.ecalertme.weather.gc.ca. Follow Environment Canada on Twitter for local weather alerts @ECAlertON160 (Goderich) or @ECAlertON110 (Wingham).

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For more information contact:

Susan Cronin, County Clerk
519.524.8394 (ext 3257)
scronin@huroncounty.ca
Our spokesperson is: Donna Parsons, Public Health Nurse. Our media contact will connect you to our spokesperson on this topic.