Heat Warning

Niagara Region Public Health and Emergency Services does not issue heat warnings. See weather alerts for Canada or check with your local town / city to see if cooling centres are available.

How heat warnings are issued

Environment Canada and Health Canada issues heat warnings for Niagara Region when:

  • Two or more consecutive days of daytime maximum temperatures are expected to reach 31°C or warmer
  • Nighttime minimum temperatures are expected to fall to 20°C or warmer
  • Two or more consecutive days of humidex values are expected to reach 40 or higher

Contact your local city / town for more information on cooling centres and community programs. Review your city / town's emergency response plan.

Risks during a heat warning

During heat warnings, everyone is at risk, but those most at risk of developing a heat-related illness include:

  • Infants and children
  • Seniors
  • People living in poverty and / or without permanent shelter
  • People with high blood pressure, heart and / or respiratory problems
  • People who work or exercise outdoors

Heat related illnesses

A combination of high heat and high humidity can be dangerous. Anyone who experiences physical distress because of extreme temperatures should seek medical attention immediately. Either call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

  • Heat stroke

    Symptoms include:

    • Confusion
    • Dizziness
    • Nausea
    • Muscle swelling
    • Heat disturbance
    • Headache
    • Seizure, unconsciousness and / or coma

    Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be fatal. Seek immediate medical attention. Call 911 if you're caring for someone who has a high body temperature and is either unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating.

  • Heat exhaustion

    Symptoms include:

    • Heavy sweating
    • Weakness
    • Dizziness
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Fainting

    Seek medical attention if you feel your health and safety is at risk.

Protect yourself during a heat warning

  • Before heading out, see the Air Quality Health Index. Air pollution tends to be higher during extreme heat.
  • Drink lots of water
  • Limit time outdoors when the UV index is most intense, between 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
  • Apply plenty of sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, labelled "broad spectrum" and "water resistant". Reapply when needed, especially after swimming, sweating or using a towel.
  • Wear close-fitting / wrap-around sunglasses with UV 400 or 100 per cent UV protection. Sunglasses for babies and children should be unbreakable.
  • Wear clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Wear wide-brimmed hats or baseball caps that cover the head, neck and ears.
  • If you can, reschedule strenuous outdoor activity to a cooler part of the day or another day
  • Seek shade or make shade by using an umbrella, a UV protective tent or a pop-up shade shelter
  • Keep babies younger than one year of age out of direct sunlight
  • Cool off in an air-conditioned space when available
  • Take a cool bath or shower
  • Keep your home cool
    • Close window shades during the hottest part of the day to reduce direct sun exposure
    • Avoid cooking during the hottest period of the day
    • Unplug large electronics that produce heat such as televisions
  • Never leave children or pets in a vehicle

Resources

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