North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit News Release ********************* In this hot, humid weather, the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has some tips to help prevent heat-related illness.
North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit News Release
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In this hot, humid weather, the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has some tips to help prevent heat-related illness.
“When temperatures and the humidity are high, our bodies are often unable to cool properly which can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke,” said Kathaleen Dudson, Registered Nurse, in Community Information Services at the Health Unit.
“The elderly, very young and people with chronic illnesses are at higher risk of illness. However, even healthy people can be affected if they participate in strenuous activities and do not take precautions.”
Here are some ways to help prevent heat-related illness:
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid drinks with alcohol, caffeine or high sugar content.
• Wear light-weight, loose fitting clothing.
• Avoid going out in the sun, if possible. If you are outdoors, wear sunscreen.
• Seek air conditioned spaces, such as shopping malls or arenas. Sometimes communities set up heat relief shelters.
• Avoid heavy meals and using your oven.
• Avoid strenuous activities between 10 am and 4 pm when the sun is hottest.
• Take cool showers or baths, or use cool, wet towels on your face, neck or arms
• Never leave anyone or pets in a parked car
• Fans alone may not provide enough relief from the heat.
• Check on elderly family members and neighbours daily to make sure they are keeping cool.
Become familiar with the symptoms of heat-related illness. Symptoms can include rapid or difficulty breathing, weakness, headache, confusion, more tiredness than usual, and nausea. Anyone with these symptoms needs to be cooled off by moving immediately to a shaded or air conditioned space, having fluids, and resting. Contact their health care professional, friend and family member or if it is an emergency, call 911.
For more information on heat-related illness, call Community Information Services at the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, at 1-800-563-2808 or 474-1400, ext. 2282.
