Heat Warning notification for the City of Hamilton

HAMILTON, ON – The Medical Officer of Health for the City of Hamilton has initiated a Heat Warning beginning on Sunday June 17, 2018. Heat Warnings stay in effect until they are cancelled or escalated to an Extended Heat Warning.

A warm front is expected to bring a southwesterly flow of hot and humid air over Southern Ontario. Current information suggests daytime highs near 31 degrees or higher will occur on Sunday and Monday. Humidex values near 40 are likely with little night time relief from the heat.  

The City of Hamilton and participating community agencies are responding to the heat by offering “cool places” to go during all stages of a heat event. These locations can be identified by a “Cool Down Here” sign at the entrance, along with a heat meter sign indicating the heat response stage.

As part of the heat response plan all public, family, adult and seniors swims at all City of Hamilton indoor pools will be free of charge. There are many spray pads, additional cool places across Hamilton. For more information visit www.hamilton.ca/heat.

The Salvation Army has launched its mobile water distribution response and is distributing water to those in need of hydration.

Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, weak pulse, fainting and vomiting. If experiencing symptoms, seek help right away – call 9-1-1 of needed.

Reduce your risk of heat-related illness by following these precautions:

• Drink plenty of water. Avoid drinking alcoholic and caffeinated beverages on hot days.
• Go to an air-conditioned place. Visit a cool place such as a mall, public recreation centres, public libraries, and other City run air-conditioned facilities, etc.
• Dress to protect from the heat. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light coloured clothing. Wear a hat or take an umbrella to keep your head cool and don’t forget sunscreen.
• Take it easy. Limit physical activities (walking, running, gardening, etc.) during the day. If rescheduling activities to dawn or dusk when it may be cooler, protect yourself with insect repellant as mosquitoes are more active at such times. Check labels to apply
• Cool off. Take a cool bath or shower.
• Keep your living space cool. Close your blinds or curtains. Open windows to let air circulate when using a fan.
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles. Temperatures in a car can become life threatening within minutes.
• Check on your neighbours and family.

Additional resources

• Information about the Heat Alert and Response System visit www.hamilton.ca/heat.
• For tips on coping with the heat and places to cool off visit www.hamilton.ca/heat or call 905-546-2489.
• City of Hamilton Pool Locations and Schedules www.hamilton.ca/recreation.
• Information on how heat affects human health is available on the Health Canada website.